What makes you most frustrated about how the wilderness is portrayed in stories like The Wendigo?
- I hate it when stories oversimplify the wilderness as just a scary place. It’s so much more complex than that!
- It’s frustrating when the characters make dumb decisions, like wandering off alone when they know there’s danger.
- I find it annoying when stories rely on cheap jump scares and gore instead of building genuine suspense.
What happened in the past when you found yourself in an unfamiliar and unsettling environment?
- I was a little creeped out at first, but I tried to focus on the positive and make the best of the situation.
- My curiosity took over, and I couldn’t wait to explore and learn more about this new place.
- My instincts told me to be cautious, so I stayed alert and aware of my surroundings.
If you could waive a magic wand, what would the perfect ending to The Wendigo be?
- I’d love to see the narrator confront his fear, defeat the Wendigo, and save Défago.
- The perfect ending would be a realistic one where the narrator learns a valuable lesson about the power of nature.
- Honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing. The ambiguity of the ending is what makes it so haunting.
What is your absolute favorite aspect of stories about the Canadian wilderness?
- The descriptions of the landscape and the feeling of being completely immersed in nature.
- The sense of isolation and the characters’ struggle against the elements.
- The exploration of Native American folklore and mythology.
What comes to mind when you hear the haunting melody of a voyageur song echoing through the woods?
- I’d feel a sense of adventure and a connection to the history and spirit of the wilderness.
- It would send chills down my spine, knowing that something sinister could be lurking nearby.
- I’d be reminded of the beauty and solitude of nature.
How comfortable are you with the idea of encountering something in the wilderness that defies rational explanation?
- I’m open to the possibility, but I’d need to see some solid evidence before I believed it.
- I’d be terrified! I’d rather stick to well-trodden paths.
- I think it would be an incredible experience. I’m always up for an adventure into the unknown.
You have a weekend to spend in a remote cabin in the woods, with no cell service and just the sounds of nature. What do you do?
- This is my idea of heaven! I’d spend my time hiking, reading, and enjoying the peace and quiet.
- I’d be too nervous about encountering something creepy in the woods to relax and enjoy myself.
- I’d probably get bored pretty quickly without any distractions.
What keeps you up at night about the themes explored in The Wendigo?
- The idea that our own fear and greed can transform us into something monstrous.
- The fragility of the human mind and its susceptibility to the unknown.
- The vastness and indifference of nature to human suffering.
What is your strongest opinion about the events that unfold in The Wendigo?
- I believe that the Wendigo was real and that Défago was a victim of its supernatural power.
- It seems more likely that Défago suffered a mental breakdown brought on by the stress and isolation of the wilderness.
- I think the story is open to interpretation. It’s up to the reader to decide what they believe.
A specific situation arises where you’re tracking something unknown through the wilderness. How do you react?
- I’d proceed with caution, making sure to leave markers along the way in case I need to retrace my steps.
- I wouldn’t be able to resist the urge to find out what I was dealing with, even if it meant putting myself in danger.
- I’d probably turn back. I’m not cut out for this kind of thing!
What do you dream about when it comes to exploring the mysteries of the Canadian wilderness?
- Discovering hidden waterfalls and encountering rare wildlife.
- Uncovering ancient secrets and lost civilizations.
- Finding peace and solitude in the vastness of nature.
What is most likely to make you feel uneasy about the idea of encountering the Wendigo in the wilderness?
- The Wendigo’s insatiable hunger and its association with cannibalism.
- The creature’s ability to mimic human voices and lure its victims to their deaths.
- The idea that the Wendigo represents the darkest aspects of human nature.
If you could choose any souvenir to bring back from the world of The Wendigo, which one would you choose and why?
- Défago’s journal, because it might hold clues to the true nature of the Wendigo.
- A piece of birch bark with a message scrawled on it in Défago’s handwriting.
- I’d rather not have any reminders of that terrifying experience!
How do you feel about the depiction of Native American folklore in stories like The Wendigo?
- I think it’s important to approach these stories with respect and to avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
- I find it fascinating, but I also recognize that it’s important to separate myth from reality.
- I’m not really familiar with Native American folklore.
You’re at a bonfire with friends, sharing spooky stories, and someone mentions the Wendigo. What’s your go-to anecdote?
- I’d recount the basic plot of The Wendigo, emphasizing the eerie atmosphere and the guide’s descent into madness.
- I’d share a local legend about a creature that haunts a nearby forest, tailoring it to fit the Wendigo myth.
- I’d probably just listen. I’m not much of a storyteller.
Someone asks “What scares you most about the wilderness?” What’s the actual answer, not just a throwaway “bears” or “bugs?”
- The idea of being completely alone and isolated, with no one to help me if something goes wrong.
- The thought of encountering something ancient and powerful that I don’t understand and can’t control.
- The realization that nature is a force to be reckoned with, and that we are ultimately vulnerable to its power.
What aspect of The Wendigo makes you the most happy you read it?
- The chilling atmosphere and the suspenseful plot, which kept me on the edge of my seat.
- The thought-provoking themes about the power of nature, the fragility of the human psyche, and the limits of our understanding.
- I can’t say that any part of the story made me particularly happy. It was a deeply unsettling experience.
What’s your favorite fictional representation of the Wendigo in literature, film, or video games?
- I thought the Wendigo in the movie “Ravenous” was a terrifying and memorable portrayal.
- The video game “Until Dawn” features a truly creepy and disturbing take on the Wendigo myth.
- I’m a fan of the classic Algernon Blackwood story, “The Wendigo.” It’s a masterclass in suspense and horror.
You have a choice of spending a night in a haunted house or a weekend camping in the wilderness where the Wendigo is said to roam. Which do you choose?
- Give me the haunted house! At least I can rationalize those scares.
- I’d rather take my chances with the Wendigo. Ghosts and spirits freak me out.
- Neither! I’m not a big fan of scary situations in general.
When you were a kid, how did you imagine the creatures from scary stories?
- My imagination ran wild, and I pictured them as terrifying monsters lurking under my bed.
- I tried to rationalize them, convincing myself they were just figments of my imagination.
- I wasn’t really into scary stories as a kid. I preferred adventures and fantasies.
Tell us a little about your ideal wilderness retreat?
- A cozy cabin nestled in the woods, with a fireplace, a good book, and no cell service.
- A secluded campsite by a pristine lake, where I can swim, fish, and reconnect with nature.
- I’m more of a city person. I prefer the comforts and conveniences of urban life.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word “Wendigo?”
- The image of a skeletal, stag-like creature with glowing eyes and an insatiable hunger.
- A feeling of primal fear and the unsettling sense of being watched in the wilderness.
- The Native American legend and the warnings about greed, gluttony, and the dangers of the unknown.
What causes are you most passionate about when it comes to protecting the wilderness?
- Combating climate change and reducing our impact on the environment.
- Protecting wildlife habitats and promoting biodiversity.
- Preserving wild spaces for future generations to enjoy.
Which of these wilderness survival skills would you enjoy the most?
- Building a fire: There’s something primal and satisfying about creating something essential from scratch.
- Navigating by the stars: It would be incredible to rely on ancient knowledge to find my way.
- Identifying edible plants: I’d feel a sense of accomplishment knowing I could survive off the land.
What’s your favorite memory of a time you felt a connection to nature, whether it be a walk in the park or a camping trip?
- I remember hiking to a secluded waterfall and feeling a sense of awe at the beauty and power of nature.
- I once spent a night camping under the stars, and it was an incredibly humbling and peaceful experience.
- I can’t say that I’ve ever felt a strong connection to nature.
What place in the wilderness do you most want to explore?
- The Canadian Rockies: The mountains, forests, and glaciers sound absolutely breathtaking.
- The Amazon rainforest: The biodiversity and sheer scale of the rainforest are awe-inspiring.
- I’m content exploring the wilderness from the comfort of my own home, through books and movies.
How would your friends and family describe your relationship with the wilderness?
- They’d probably say that I’m a cautious but enthusiastic explorer who appreciates the beauty of nature.
- They’d call me a city slicker who’s more comfortable in a concrete jungle than the actual wilderness.
- They’d describe me as someone who respects nature but prefers to experience it in small doses.
What happens if you find yourself lost and alone in the wilderness, with no way to contact help and the feeling of being watched growing stronger?
- I’d try to stay calm, assess my surroundings, and find a safe place to make camp while I figure out my next move.
- Panic would set in, and I’d probably make a series of terrible decisions that would only make my situation worse.
- I’d try to remember any survival skills I’ve learned and focus on finding food, water, and shelter.
How do you handle the fear and anxiety that can arise when venturing into the unknown, especially in a place like the wilderness where so much is out of your control?
- I try to focus on the present moment and remind myself that I can only control my own actions and reactions.
- I’d probably let my imagination run wild, conjuring up all sorts of worst-case scenarios.
- I’d rely on my companions for support and try to distract myself from my fear.
To what degree do you experience the unsettling feeling of being watched when you’re alone in a secluded or unfamiliar environment?
- I sometimes get an eerie feeling, but I try to rationalize it.
- I’m highly sensitive to my surroundings, so I often feel like I’m being watched, even when I know I’m not.
- I rarely feel this way. I’m pretty oblivious to my surroundings most of the time.
What do you think you need to overcome your fear of the wilderness and embrace the beauty and power of nature?
- I need more experience in the outdoors and the confidence that comes with knowing how to take care of myself.
- I think I just need to face my fears head-on and prove to myself that there’s nothing to be afraid of.
- I’m not sure that I want to overcome my fear. I’m comfortable with my level of appreciation for nature.
Which of the following is most accurate when it comes to your ability to distinguish between real and imagined threats in a stressful situation?
- I’m pretty good at staying level-headed and assessing danger realistically.
- I tend to overthink things and see danger where there isn’t any.
- I’m somewhere in between. It depends on the situation.
How prepared are you, realistically, for a survival situation in the wilderness, taking into account your skills, knowledge, and resources?
- I have some basic knowledge and skills, but I’d definitely need to brush up on them.
- I’m not prepared at all. I wouldn’t last five minutes in a survival situation.
- I’m pretty confident in my abilities. I’ve always been resourceful and quick on my feet.
How often do you actively seek out opportunities to connect with nature, whether it’s through hiking, camping, or simply spending time outdoors?
- I try to get out into nature at least once a week, even if it’s just for a walk in the park.
- I prefer the comforts of indoor activities.
- I enjoy nature, but I don’t go out of my way to experience it.
How confident are you in your ability to read and interpret natural signs in the wilderness, such as animal tracks, weather patterns, and edible plants?
- I have some basic knowledge, but I wouldn’t rely on it in a survival situation.
- I’m clueless! I can’t tell a deer track from a rabbit track.
- I’m pretty observant and resourceful. I’m confident that I could learn to read the signs.
How well do you stay calm and rational when faced with unexpected challenges or setbacks, particularly in unfamiliar environments like the wilderness?
- I’m usually able to stay calm and think clearly, even under pressure.
- I tend to panic and make impulsive decisions when I’m stressed.
- It depends on the situation.
Do you have a support system in place, such as a trusted friend or family member, who you can rely on for emotional support and practical assistance if you were to find yourself in a challenging or dangerous situation?
- Absolutely. I have a close-knit circle of friends and family who I know I can always count on.
- I have a few people I could reach out to, but I’m pretty independent.
- I’m more of a lone wolf. I prefer to handle things on my own.
What is your current biggest challenge when it comes to appreciating the wilderness?
- Overcoming my fear of the unknown and the creatures that may lurk in the shadows.
- Finding the time and motivation to get outdoors and disconnect from technology.
- Learning the necessary skills to feel confident and prepared in a wilderness setting.
How do you handle the feeling of vulnerability that can come with venturing into the wilderness, where you’re exposed to the elements and potentially dangerous wildlife?
- I try to be as prepared as possible and trust my instincts to keep me safe.
- I’d probably be a nervous wreck the entire time, constantly scanning my surroundings for danger.
- I’d try to find a balance between caution and enjoying the experience.
Do you have a healthy respect for the power of nature, or do you tend to underestimate its potential dangers?
- I believe that nature is a powerful force that deserves our respect.
- I tend to think that I’m invincible and that nothing bad could ever happen to me.
- I’m somewhere in between. I respect nature, but I also recognize that it can be unpredictable.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think about the potential dangers of the wilderness, such as wild animals, treacherous terrain, or extreme weather conditions?
- Getting lost or injured and having no way to contact help.
- Encountering a dangerous animal, like a bear or a mountain lion.
- Being caught in a sudden storm or blizzard.
How do you balance your desire for adventure and exploration with the need for safety and caution when venturing into the wilderness?
- I do my research, plan my trips carefully, and always let someone know where I’m going.
- I tend to throw caution to the wind and just go for it, which can sometimes get me into trouble.
- I try to find a happy medium. I’m up for an adventure, but I’m not reckless.
Which of these best describes your current approach to exploring the wilderness: cautious curiosity, reckless abandon, or indifferent observer?
- Cautious curiosity: I’m drawn to the beauty and mystery of the wilderness, but I also approach it with a healthy dose of respect and caution.
- Reckless abandon: I’m an adrenaline junkie who loves to push the limits and test my boundaries.
- Indifferent observer: I’m content to experience the wilderness through books, movies, and other people’s stories.
Are you stuck in a pattern of avoiding the wilderness altogether due to fear or a lack of interest?
- Not at all. I enjoy spending time in nature.
- I’ve been meaning to get out more, but I always seem to find an excuse.
- I’m perfectly content with my urban lifestyle.
What would you say are your top three struggles right now when it comes to expanding your comfort zone in the wilderness?
- Fear of the unknown, lack of experience, and feeling unprepared.
- Time constraints, finding a hiking buddy, and choosing the right gear.
- Lack of interest, fear of insects, and preference for indoor activities.
What is your wilderness exploration goal?
- To conquer my fear of the unknown and learn to appreciate the beauty and power of nature.
- To challenge myself physically and mentally and gain a sense of accomplishment.
- To connect with nature on a deeper level and find peace and solitude.
What do you think is missing in your quest to become more comfortable and confident in the wilderness?
- Knowledge, skills, and experience.
- Confidence, motivation, and a sense of adventure.
- Companionship, suitable gear, and access to wild spaces.
What is your current level of expertise in identifying and avoiding potential hazards in the wilderness, such as poisonous plants, dangerous animals, or unstable terrain?
- Beginner: I have some basic knowledge, but I’m still learning.
- Intermediate: I’m comfortable with common hazards, but I’m always looking to improve my skills.
- Expert: I’m confident in my ability to identify and avoid most hazards.
You are deep in the woods and hear a branch snap nearby. How do you respond?
- Freeze, listen intently, and try to determine the source of the sound.
- Immediately assume the worst and start running in the opposite direction.
- Call out, hoping to scare away whatever made the noise.
What descriptive word do you experience most when thinking about the events of The Wendigo: “intrigued”, “disturbed”, or “unfazed”?
- Intrigued: I’m fascinated by the story’s exploration of fear and the unknown.
- Disturbed: The story’s themes and imagery have stayed with me long after I finished reading it.
- Unfazed: I’m not easily rattled by horror stories. I can appreciate them for their craftsmanship, but they don’t keep me up at night.
Which of the following do you notice yourself worrying about on a day-to-day basis more: personal safety, global issues, or work-life balance?
- I’m more concerned with personal safety and taking precautions to protect myself and my loved ones.
- Global issues like climate change and social injustice weigh heavily on my mind.
- I’m mostly focused on maintaining a healthy work-life balance and managing my stress levels.
How anxious and excited do you feel in your everyday life?
- I experience a healthy balance of anxiety and excitement, which keeps me motivated and engaged.
- I’m easily overwhelmed by anxiety and often feel stressed out.
- I’m generally laid-back and don’t get too worked up about things.
How well do you manage unexpected situations, especially when they involve a degree of risk or uncertainty?
- I’m a quick thinker and can adapt to changing circumstances relatively easily.
- I crumble under pressure and often make impulsive decisions.
- I try to stay calm and assess the situation before taking any action.
How connected do you feel to the power and mystery of the natural world, regardless of whether you spend a lot of time outdoors?
- I feel a deep connection to nature, even when I’m surrounded by concrete and steel.
- I appreciate the beauty of nature, but I don’t feel a particularly strong connection to it.
- I’m indifferent to nature.
Which of the following is most likely to frustrate you when reading or watching a story set in the wilderness: unrealistic character behavior, predictable plot twists, or excessive gore and violence?
- Unrealistic character behavior: It takes me out of the story when characters make decisions that defy logic or common sense.
- Predictable plot twists: I enjoy a good surprise, and I can get bored if I can see the ending coming a mile away.
- Excessive gore and violence: I prefer my horror to be more psychological than visceral.
What is the trickiest part about maintaining a healthy balance between respecting the power of nature and not letting fear control your life?
- Finding the courage to step outside my comfort zone and explore new places, even when I’m afraid.
- Balancing my desire for adventure with the need to be responsible and safe.
- Overcoming my anxieties and learning to trust my instincts.
Do you struggle more with self-doubt when it comes to your wilderness abilities or with overestimating your skills and knowledge?
- I’m definitely more prone to self-doubt. I tend to second-guess myself.
- I’m a bit overconfident sometimes, which can lead me to take unnecessary risks.
- I’m usually pretty realistic about my abilities.