Saul Bellow's The Adventures of Augie March and Intermediate 5 mile hike

Welcome to the Adventures of Augie March meets an adventure at Mission Point. Bring snacks to share as we talk about the book on top.

The work: Saul Bellow's Bildungsroman, The Adventures of Augie March, won the 1954 National Book Award for fiction and some influential editors named it on their 100 best novels in the English language. It certainly is a linguistic tour de force tracing the development of a young man into adulthood during and after the Great Depression. Saul Bellow, although he won the Nobel Prize for literature, is sometimes called the "failed laureate" and perceptive, brilliant, compassionate Augie is a bit of a study in failure. It will be fun to talk about this book from the lovely 2,771 foot summit of Mission Point, from where there is a fantastic view of the suburban sprawl as well as hilltops and the leakage of the crapopolous over into the Santa Clarita Valley.

The hike: It will take us 3-4 hours to complete this hike (likely closer to 3 hours) depending on the ambient temperature, depth of discussion, quality of snacks and libations. It will not be dark, so no real need to bring a flashlight unless you bring your iguana hunting eagle, and other eight essentials too.

Distance: ~5 miles

Elevation Gain: 1300'

Difficulty: Moderate on rutted fire road, some steep sections, with slippery rocks.

Dogs: Yes, if they keep owners on leash.

Restrooms: No

Water Fountain: No

Parking: Free. Park near the end of Neon Way.

Trail: Fire Road with some erosion.

Known Dangers: Rattlesnakes, slip-'n-fall, mountain bikes, horses (like the one that almost killed Augie March), eagles attacking iguanas, the entertainment industry, getting married too early. Madness.

Directions and Parking:

Put 12859 Neon Way into your GPS or from the 118 fwy exit Balboa Blvd and go north toward the hills. After a few blocks make a left on Jolette Ave and continue past Sesnon Blvd. and turn left on Doric St, then turn right on Neon Way and follow until it dead ends at a cul-de-sac. Park there by the trailhead while being considerate of the neighbors.

Trailhead coordinates: 34.304225, -118.517285

Disclaimer / Release of Liability: You must RSVP to attend this event, no exceptions. Hiking and other outdoor events are inherently dangerous and accidents can happen. By participating in any posted event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. This Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. You are responsible for you. If you choose to sign up for any events, you are releasing the Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. This applies to any guests you may invite and to all your individuated personalities that may or may not emerge under the influence of hiking or literature. Please be respectful and limit the noise and disturbances near the residential area.

Trivia Question: What country banned this book for 12 years? (no, Chicago is not a country).