'The Temptations of Two' Response

Ultimately, the theme of 'The Temptations of Two' by Susan Fox Rogers, is that adventure is defined by taking risks, and is limited by caution. That's not to say Rogers encourages complete disregard for safety, simply that she believes the best part of adventure is the feeling of adrenaline and rush of heat that occurs after one takes a risk. She exemplifies this not just through her inability to say no to  herself when she wants to scout a new route, or her similar inability to say no to Emily's ideas, but also by the chance she takes in leaving her solitary lifestyle behind to pursue a relationship. The parallel between the two captures how she has come to love the feeling of uncertainty and spontaneity. Elements of Roger's language that struck me was how she substituted everyday phrases with images one wouldn't expect, like "uncluttered space" and "playground on which to move" instead of sky and river, respectively. I was further struck by her blunt, straightforward language. For instance, Rogers is very matter-of-fact when debating whether solo or double traveling is more reasonable, often answering her own questions, like "Why...something new." (pg. 162).