Call of the Mild summary

The Journey Begins

In Call of the Mild by Lily Raff McCaulou, we accompany the author on her journey from being a city-dwelling vegetarian to a rural-dwelling hunter. The narrative takes us from her childhood, where she was taught to fear guns and view hunting as an act of cruelty, to her adult life, where she challenges these preconceived notions.

McCaulou's transformation begins when she moves from New York City to the small town of Bend, Oregon, and takes up a job as a reporter. Here, she is introduced to the local hunting culture, a stark contrast to her urban upbringing. Her initial exposure to the hunting world is through her reporting work, where she covers hunting-related stories and meets people who hunt for various reasons, including food, tradition, and conservation.

Embracing the Outdoors

As McCaulou immerses herself in the rural lifestyle, she starts to develop a growing appreciation for the outdoors and the role hunting plays in this environment. She learns about the intricacies of wildlife management, the concept of ethical hunting, and the sustainable use of natural resources. This newfound understanding prompts her to question her preconceived notions about hunting and consider the possibility of participating in it.

McCaulou's decision to become a hunter is not made lightly. She undergoes a series of experiences that challenge her beliefs and comfort zone. She attends a hunter safety course, practices target shooting, and embarks on her first hunting trip. These experiences, while daunting, provide her with a deeper understanding of the hunting process, the responsibilities it entails, and the connection to the natural world it fosters.

Challenging Beliefs

Through her journey, McCaulou confronts several ethical dilemmas. She grapples with the idea of taking a life, even for a purpose as fundamental as sustenance. She also navigates the complexities of hunting in a modern world, where the act is often viewed with disdain by those who don't understand its cultural and ecological significance.

Despite these challenges, McCaulou remains committed to her journey. She continues to hunt, not just for the thrill of the chase, but also for the connection it provides to the food on her table and the natural world around her. She also uses her experiences to advocate for a more nuanced understanding of hunting, one that acknowledges its potential for conservation and sustainable living.

Reflection and Transformation

As Call of the Mild draws to a close, we witness McCaulou's transformation from a hunting skeptic to a hunting advocate. Her journey serves as a testament to the power of open-mindedness and the willingness to challenge one's beliefs. She acknowledges that hunting is not for everyone, but she emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting diverse perspectives.

Ultimately, McCaulou's story is not just about hunting; it's about embracing new experiences, broadening one's horizons, and questioning deeply-held assumptions. Her journey from the city to the wilderness, from fear to understanding, and from doubt to advocacy, is a reminder that our beliefs are not static, and our capacity for growth is limitless.