Sam’s desire for independence motivates him throughout his adventure. Sam runs away from his cramped New York apartment so that he can learn to survive on his own and become self-sufficient. Sam leaves home with very little—a penknife, a ball of cord, an ax, and $40—as well some flint and steel. Initially Sam struggles to survive on his own, experiencing a miserable first night in the Catskills, which causes him to run toward the first house he sees and seek help. There he meets Bill, who helps Sam learn how to build a fire properly, which is a boon for Sam to becoming independent.

Sam realizes his independence in a crucial moment at the end Chapter 3, when he catches and cooks a meal for himself using a fire he’s built for the first time. As Sam describes this moment to the reader, “Also I was stuffed on catfish. I have since learned to cook it more, but never have I enjoyed a meal as much as that one, and never have I felt so independent again” (24). Providing food and warmth for himself is critical toward Sam’s gaining independence. This moment is really just the start of Sam’s independence, for it continues to grow as the story continues.