The Mountain Between Us

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of child abuse.

Symbolizing Ben’s love for Rachel and the important role that their love plays in his life is the compass that she gave him as a gift after their wedding. Her note read, “So you can find your way back to me,” and she had the inscription “My True North” engraved on the back of the compass (132). Ben uses the compass constantly, and it’s his only source of guidance once the GPS dies. He notes how “staring out at the immense wilderness remind[s] [him]. [He] could lose most everything and still have a chance. But not without the compass. [He] tie[s] it to a piece of nylon cord and tether[s] it around [his] neck” (164-65). In this way, the compass has physical importance to Ben as a tool, guiding him through the wilderness.

Additionally, the compass also has emotional importance. As a gift from his late wife, it reminds him of her love for him, which is another important tool that he uses to survive. Just as a compass gives the user direction—via a “true north”—Rachel’s love gives Ben direction and purpose in his life. This

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