PASSAGE

Of all the emotions which surged through me as I stood on the summit of Everest, looking over miles of panorama below us, the dominant one I think was humility. The physical in me seemed to say, ‘Thank God, it’s all over!” However, instead of being jubilant, there was a tinge of sadness. Was it because I had already done the ‘ultimate’ in climbing and there would be nothing higher to climb and all roads hereafter would lead down?

Word Meaning

• Surged – arose suddenly and intensely
• Summit – the highest point of a hill or a mountain
• Panorama – view of a wide area
• Humility – the quality of having a modest or low view of one’s importance
• Jubilant – very happy because of success
• Tinge – trace; shade

Explanation:

The author reflects on the powerful emotions experienced while standing at the summit of Mount Everest. Amidst the breathtaking panorama, humility emerges as the dominant feeling, emphasizing a sense of modesty despite the achievement. The physical exhaustion leads to a moment of relief, expressed in the thought, “Thank God, it’s all over!” However, instead of the anticipated joy of reaching such a significant milestone, a feeling of sadness lingers. This sadness likely arises from the realization that he has accomplished the highest feat in climbing, leaving him with the notion that future journeys will only descend, marking an end to the pursuit of higher peaks.

PASSAGE

By climbing the summit of Everest you are overwhelmed by a deep sense of joy and thankfulness. It is a joy which lasts a lifetime. The experience changes you completely. The man who has been to the mountains is never the same again.

Word Meaning

• Overwhelmed – have a strong emotional effect on
• Experience – an event or occurrence that leaves an impression on someone
• Transform – to make a thorough or dramatic change in form, appearance, or character

Explanation:

Climbing to the summit of Everest envelops climbers in an intense feeling of joy and thankfulness, emotions that resonate long after the ascent. This profound sense of joy is not fleeting; it lasts a lifetime, marking a significant milestone in one’s life. The journey to the top is not just a physical achievement but a transformative experience that fundamentally alters one’s perspective and character. The phrase “the man who has been to the mountains is never the same again” underscores the deep, lasting impact of such an adventure. Those who conquer Everest carry with them a newfound appreciation for life, an enriched understanding of their own limits, and a connection to nature that fundamentally redefines their identity. This change is not merely external but is rooted in a deeper emotional and spiritual awakening that resonates throughout their lives.

PASSAGE

As I look back at life after climbing Everest I cannot help remarking about the other summit — the summit of the mind — no less formidable and no easier to climb. Even when getting down from the summit, once the physical exhaustion had gone, I began asking myself the question why I had climbed Everest. Why did the act of reaching the summit have such a hold on my imagination? It was already a thing of the past, something done yesterday. With every passing day, it would become more remote. And then what would remain? Would my memories fade slowly away?

Word Meaning

• Formidable – strong and powerful; inspiring fear or respect through being impressively large, powerful, intense, or capable
• Remote – distant; not close in time or space
• Exhaustion – extreme fatigue; a state of extreme physical or mental fatigue
• Imagination – the ability of the mind to be creative or resourceful
• Accomplishment – something that has been achieved successfully

Explanation:

In reflecting on his journey after climbing Everest, the author draws attention to another significant challenge: the “summit of the mind.” This metaphorical summit is portrayed as equally formidable and difficult to navigate, suggesting that mental and emotional challenges can be as daunting as physical feats. Once he has descended and regained his strength, the author confronts introspective questions about his motivations for climbing Everest. He grapples with the hold this accomplishment has on his imagination, despite it now being a memory from the past. As time passes, he acknowledges that the experience will feel increasingly remote, raising concerns about the longevity of his memories. The passage explores the interplay between physical achievement and mental reflection, emphasizing the transient nature of memories and the deeper existential questions they provoke. The author is left pondering whether the significance of his triumph will endure in his mind or gradually fade away, highlighting the complexity of human experience and memory.

PASSAGE

All these thoughts led me to question myself as to why people climb mountains. It is not easy to answer the question. The simplest answer would be, as others have said, “Because it is there.” It presents great difficulties. Man takes delight in overcoming obstacles. The obstacles in climbing a mountain are physical. A climb to a summit means endurance, persistence and will power. The demonstration of these physical qualities is no doubt exhilarating, as it was for me also.

Word Meaning

• Endurance – tolerance; the ability to withstand hardship or adversity
• Persistence – the fact of continuing in a course of action in spite of difficulty; perseverance
• Exhilarating – very exciting; causing strong feelings of happiness and excitement
• Obstacles – challenges or barriers that hinder progress
• Will power – the ability to control oneself and make decisions

Explanation:

The author’s reflections lead him to ponder the motivations behind why people choose to climb mountains. He recognizes that this question does not have a straightforward answer, although a common response is simply, “Because it is there.” Climbing mountains presents significant challenges, and overcoming these obstacles is a source of pleasure and fulfillment for climbers. The challenges encountered during a climb are primarily physical, requiring qualities such as endurance, persistence, and willpower. The author highlights that showcasing these physical attributes can be exhilarating, mirroring his own experiences. This passage explores the deeper motivations behind mountain climbing, emphasizing the joy derived from facing and conquering physical challenges, and how these experiences foster a sense of accomplishment and exhilaration.

PASSAGE

I have a more personal answer to the question. From my childhood I have been attracted by mountains. I had been miserable, lost, when away from mountains, in the plains. Mountains are nature at its best. Their beauty and majesty pose a great challenge, and like many, I believe that mountains are a means of communion with God.

Word Meaning

• Majesty – magnificence or great beauty; the quality of being impressive or grand
• Communion – the sharing or exchanging of intimate thoughts and feelings, especially on a mental or spiritual level
• Attracted – drawn to something; having a strong interest or liking for
• Miserable – feeling very unhappy or uncomfortable; in a state of distress

Explanation:

The author offers a deeply personal perspective on his motivation for climbing mountains, rooted in a lifelong attraction to them. Since childhood, he has felt a profound connection to mountains, experiencing feelings of misery and loss when he is away from their presence in the plains. He perceives mountains as the epitome of nature, showcasing its beauty and majesty. While these natural wonders present significant challenges, the author believes they also serve as a sacred space for communion with God. This belief reflects a spiritual dimension to his connection with mountains, where he can share intimate thoughts and feelings, enhancing his overall appreciation for their grandeur. Through this passage, the author conveys not only his love for mountains but also their role in providing solace and a deeper connection to the divine.

PASSAGE

Once having granted this, the question remains: Why Everest? Because it is the highest, the mightiest and has defied many previous attempts. It takes the last ounce of one’s energy. It is a brutal struggle with rock and ice. Once taken up, it cannot be given up halfway even when one’s life is at stake. The passage back is as difficult as the passage onwards. And then, when the summit is climbed, there is the exhilaration, the joy of having done something, the sense of a battle fought and won. There is a feeling of victory and of happiness. Glimpsing a peak in the distance, I get transported to another world. I experience a change within myself which can only be called mystical. By its beauty, aloofness, might, ruggedness, and the difficulties encountered on the way, the peak draws me to it — as Everest did. It is a challenge that is difficult to resist.

Word Meaning

• Defied – frustrated; resisted; to openly challenge or refuse to obey
• Brutal – unpleasant or harsh; extremely cruel or severe
• Glimpsing – catch or get a sight of; a brief or incomplete view
• Mystical – inspiring a sense of spiritual mystery, awe, and fascination; other-worldly
• Aloofness – distant; the quality of being emotionally uninvolved or detached
• Ruggedness – roughly irregular; heavy or hard in outline or form; toughness in appearance or texture

Explanation:

After contemplating the reasons for climbing mountains, the author specifically addresses the question of “Why Everest?” The answer lies in its status as the highest and mightiest peak, which has thwarted numerous climbing attempts throughout history. Conquering Everest demands every ounce of a climber’s energy, as it involves a brutal struggle against the harsh elements of rock and ice. Once the ascent is embarked upon, turning back is not an option, even when faced with life-threatening circumstances, as the descent poses equally daunting challenges.

Upon successfully reaching the summit, climbers are met with a profound sense of exhilaration and joy, akin to winning a hard-fought battle. The author describes feelings of victory and happiness, capturing the essence of triumph over adversity. The act of glimpsing another peak in the distance evokes a transformative experience, transporting him to a different realm, which he characterizes as mystical. The peak’s beauty, aloofness, might, and ruggedness draw him in, symbolizing a challenge that is irresistibly compelling. Through this passage, the author conveys the intricate relationship between physical challenge and spiritual fulfillment, illustrating how the allure of Everest lies not only in its formidable nature but also in the deep personal transformation it inspires.

PASSAGE

Looking back, I find that I have not yet fully explained why I climbed Everest. It is like answering a question why you breathe. Why do you help your neighbour? Why do you want to do good acts? There is no final answer possible. And then there is the fact that Everest is not just a physical climb. The man who has been to the mountain-top becomes conscious in a special manner of his own smallness in this large universe.

Explanation:

The author reflects on his journey and realizes he has yet to fully articulate his reasons for climbing Everest. He likens the question of motivation to fundamental inquiries about life, such as why one breathes, helps a neighbor, or engages in good deeds—questions that lack definitive answers. This comparison highlights the intrinsic, often unexplainable nature of such motivations. Furthermore, he emphasizes that climbing Everest transcends mere physical exertion; it evokes a profound awareness of one’s insignificance in the vastness of the universe. This realization fosters a sense of humility, as individuals who reach the summit gain a deeper understanding of their smallness in the grand scheme of existence, prompting introspection and a reevaluation of their place in the world. Through this passage, the author conveys the philosophical and spiritual dimensions of his experience, illustrating how such monumental challenges can lead to transformative insights about life and one’s self.

PASSAGE

The physical conquest of a mountain is only one part of the achievement. There is more to it than that. It is followed by a sense of fulfilment. There is the satisfaction of a deep urge to rise above one’s surroundings. It is the eternal love for adventure in man. The experience is not merely physical. It is emotional. It is spiritual.

Word Meaning

• Conquest – conquering; the act of overcoming or defeating something, often in a challenging context
• Fulfilment – the achievement of something desired or promised; a feeling of satisfaction and happiness as a result of fully developing one’s abilities or character
• Urge – a strong desire or impulse to act
• Emotional – relating to feelings and moods
• Spiritual – relating to the spirit or soul, often associated with a sense of connection to something greater than oneself

Explanation:

The author asserts that the physical conquest of a mountain represents only a portion of the overall achievement. Beyond the mere act of climbing, there is an accompanying sense of fulfillment that arises from overcoming challenges. This sense of accomplishment satisfies a profound urge to transcend one’s immediate surroundings and circumstances. It embodies humanity’s eternal love for adventure, which drives individuals to seek out and embrace new experiences. The journey of climbing is portrayed as more than a physical endeavor; it encompasses emotional and spiritual dimensions as well. This holistic view highlights that the impact of such experiences reaches deep into one’s psyche, fostering personal growth and a deeper connection to life and the universe. Ultimately, the passage conveys that the true essence of climbing lies in its ability to transform not just the body but also the mind and spirit, enriching the climber’s overall experience.

PASSAGE

Consider a typical climb, towards the summit on the last heights. You are sharing a rope with another climber. You firm in. He cuts the steps in the hard ice. Then he belays and you inch your way up. The climb is grim. You strain every nerve as you take every step. Famous climbers have left records of the help given by others. They have also recorded how they needed just that help. Else they might have given up. Breathing is difficult. You curse yourself for having let yourself in for this. You wonder why you ever undertook the ascent. There are moments when you feel like going back. It would be sheer relief to go down, instead of up. But almost at once you snap out of that mood. There is something in you that does not let you give up the struggle. And you go on. Your companion keeps up with you. Just another fifty feet. Or a hundred, maybe. You ask yourself: Is there no end? You look at your companion and he looks at you. You draw inspiration from each other. And then, without first being aware of it, you are at the summit.

Word Meaning

• Firm in – to make oneself stable or secure
• Belays – to secure a climber’s rope to a stable point to prevent a fall
• Grim – harsh, severe, or uninviting
• Ascent – the act of climbing or rising upwards

Explanation:

The author paints a vivid picture of a typical ascent towards the summit, emphasizing the shared struggle between climbers tethered by a rope. As one climber secures himself, the other cuts steps into the hard ice, illustrating the teamwork essential in such harsh conditions. The climb is depicted as a grim and strenuous endeavor, demanding intense physical and mental effort. The author references famous climbers who have documented the importance of mutual support, highlighting how crucial this assistance can be; without it, they might have given up in the face of overwhelming challenges.

Breathing becomes a struggle at high altitudes, leading to feelings of regret and self-doubt as climbers question their motivations for undertaking such a daunting ascent. In moments of despair, the thought of retreat offers a tempting relief. However, this mood is often fleeting, as an inner resolve emerges that compels climbers to persist. The companionship becomes a source of inspiration; with each glance, they encourage one another to continue, even as they grapple with the seemingly endless journey ahead.

Finally, the narrative culminates in a moment of realization—without consciously acknowledging the final push, they find themselves at the summit. This moment encapsulates the essence of perseverance, camaraderie, and the transformative power of overcoming formidable obstacles. The passage illustrates that the journey is as significant as the destination, with emotional and spiritual growth often occurring in the face of adversity.

PASSAGE

Looking round from the summit you tell yourself that it was worthwhile. Other silvery peaks appear through the clouds. If you are lucky the sun may be on them. The surrounding peaks look like a jewelled necklace around the neck of your summit. Below, you see vast valleys sloping into the distance. It is an ennobling, enriching experience to just look down from the summit of a mountain. You bow down and make your obeisance to whichever God you worship.

Word Meaning

• Ennobling – giving someone a noble rank or title; uplifting
• Obeisance – deferential respect; a gesture of respect or submission

Explanation:

Upon reaching the summit, the author reflects on the journey, affirming that the challenges faced were indeed worthwhile. The panoramic view reveals other silvery peaks emerging through the clouds, and if fortunate, they may be illuminated by the sun, adding to their beauty. These surrounding mountains resemble a “jewelled necklace,” enhancing the grandeur of the summit.

Looking down from this elevated position offers a breathtaking perspective of vast valleys that stretch into the horizon. This moment is described as ennobling and enriching, highlighting the profound impact of experiencing such natural beauty. It signifies not just a physical achievement, but also a spiritual and emotional elevation.

In a gesture of humility and reverence, the climber bows down to make obeisance to the deity of their choice, acknowledging a connection to something greater than themselves. This act underscores the spiritual significance of the climb and the sense of gratitude felt in this moment of triumph. The passage encapsulates the blend of physical accomplishment and spiritual reflection that defines the mountaineering experience.

PASSAGE

I left on Everest a picture of Guru Nanak. Rawat left a picture of Goddess Durga. Phu Dorji left a relic of the Buddha. Edmund Hillary had buried a cross under a cairn (a heap of rocks and stones) in the snow. These are not symbols of conquest but of reverence. The experience of having climbed to the summit changes you completely.

Word Meaning

• Relic – an artefact, often of historical or religious significance
• Reverence – deep respect for someone or something; a feeling of profound respect

Explanation:

In this passage, the author reflects on the symbolic gestures left by climbers at the summit of Mount Everest. He shares that he left a picture of Guru Nanak, while his fellow climbers contributed their own symbols of faith: Rawat left a picture of Goddess Durga, Phu Dorji left a relic of the Buddha, and Edmund Hillary buried a cross beneath a cairn in the snow.

The author emphasizes that these items are not symbols of conquest but rather of reverence, indicating a deep respect for spirituality and the mountains themselves. This underscores the idea that climbing Everest transcends mere physical achievement; it is an act of homage to the divine and a recognition of something greater than oneself.

The author concludes by stating that the experience of reaching the summit fundamentally transforms a person. This transformation reflects a shift in perspective, where the act of climbing is seen as a spiritual journey that fosters humility and respect rather than boasting about one’s accomplishments.

PASSAGE

There is another summit. It is within yourself. It is in your own mind. Each man carries within himself his own mountain peak. He must climb it to reach to a fuller knowledge of himself. It is fearful and unscalable. It cannot be climbed by anyone else. You yourself have to do it. The physical act of climbing to the summit of a mountain outside is akin to the act of climbing the mountain within. The effects of both the climbs are the same. Whether the mountain you climb is physical or emotional and spiritual, the climb will certainly change you. It teaches you much about the world and about yourself.

Word Meaning

• Akin – similar; related in nature or character

Explanation:

In this passage, the author introduces the concept of an internal summit, emphasizing that each individual possesses a personal “mountain peak” within themselves. This metaphorical summit represents the challenges and fears one must confront to achieve a deeper understanding of oneself. Climbing this internal mountain is described as a solitary journey—no one can undertake this climb for you; it is a personal endeavor that requires self-exploration and courage.

The author draws a parallel between the physical act of climbing a mountain and the emotional or spiritual journey one undertakes within. Both types of climbs yield similar transformative effects, leading to profound personal change. Regardless of whether one is facing physical, emotional, or spiritual challenges, the journey teaches valuable lessons about oneself and the world. Ultimately, the passage highlights the significance of self-discovery and the inner strength required to confront and ascend one’s personal mountains.

PASSAGE

I venture to think that my experience as an Everester has provided me with the inspiration to face life’s ordeals resolutely. Climbing the mountain was a worthwhile experience. The conquest of the internal summit is equally worthwhile. The internal summits are, perhaps, higher than Everest.

Word Meaning

• Ordeals – painful experiences; severe trials or difficulties
• Resolutely – with determination or firmness; showing a strong and unwavering attitude

Explanation:

In this passage, the author reflects on how his experiences as an “Everester” have equipped him with the strength and inspiration needed to confront life’s challenges with determination and resilience. He emphasizes that the physical act of climbing Everest was not just a significant achievement but a valuable experience that has prepared him for future trials.

Furthermore, he asserts that the conquest of one’s internal summit—representing personal growth and self-discovery—is equally, if not more, significant than climbing the physical summit of Everest. The author suggests that these internal summits may even be higher than Everest, implying that the struggles and victories faced within oneself are profound and transformative, ultimately shaping one’s character and outlook on life.