The Worst Journey in the World · Chapter
XIV: The Last Winter explained
The chapter describes the final winter at Cape Evans, with thirteen men left after the departure of the ship and the deaths of the Polar Party.
What happens
The chapter describes the final winter at Cape Evans, with thirteen men left after the departure of the ship and the deaths of the Polar Party. Under Atkinson's command, they maintain routine, scientific work, and morale despite constant blizzards and the grim knowledge that Scott and his companions are dead. The party debates whether to search south for the Polar Party or north to relieve Campbell's stranded group, ultimately deciding to go south.
Themes in this chapter
Human Endurance and Suffering
The men endure a second winter of darkness, blizzards, and grief, with many physically exhausted from previous journeys.
Leadership and Decision Making
Atkinson leads a democratic meeting to decide whether to search south or north, balancing the slim hope of saving Campbell against the duty to find Scott's records.
Characters to notice
- Edward Atkinson
Takes command of the winter party and leads the decision to search south for the Polar Party.
- Apsley Cherry-Garrard
Narrates the chapter, reflecting on the difficulties of the last winter and the decision-making process.
- Charles S. Wright
Serves as meteorologist, chemist, and physicist; gives a lecture on Barrier surfaces and sledging friction.
- William Lashly
Takes charge of the seven mules and is involved in the discussion about the Polar Party's fate.
- Tryggve Gran
In charge of stores and helps with the winter routine.
Key passages
“Ordinary people snuggle up to God as a lost leveret in a freezing wilderness might snuggle up to a Siberian tiger.”
People turn to God for comfort in desperation, like a small animal seeking warmth from a dangerous predator.
Opening epigraph by H.G. Wells, setting a tone of bleak reliance on faith in extreme conditions.
“The saving clause was that as regards hut, food, heat, clothing and the domestic life generally we were splendidly found.”
The one positive aspect was that our shelter, provisions, warmth, and daily living conditions were excellent.
Cherry-Garrard notes the material comfort of the hut despite the grim circumstances.
“If you want a good polar traveller get a man without too much muscle, with good physical tone, and let his mind be on wires—of steel.”
The ideal polar explorer is not overly muscular but physically fit, with a sharp and resilient mind.
Cherry-Garrard's reflection on the qualities needed for polar travel, emphasizing mental strength over physique.