essay journey

Essays About Journeys: Top 5 Examples and 7 Easy Prompts

Essays about journeys require recounting the events of your travel. Discover our guide with examples and prompts to help you write your essay.

No two journeys are the same, and various factors will always be at play. It’s the reason many documents their expedition through different mediums. Writing about journeys is similar to telling a real-life story that influenced your character or perspective. 

Writing essays about journeys helps to develop your writing and observation skills as you recall and pick the highlights of your travel. Sharing your experiences can entice readers to take on a journey themselves. So, aim to inspire with this exciting essay topic.

5 Essay Examples

1. the best journey in my life by suzanne pittman, 2. road trips: everything you need for a comfortable journey by car by anonymous on gradesfixer.com, 3. the first day of my journey to adulthood by anonymous on papersowl.com, 4. life is a journey essay by anonymous on paperwritings.com, 5. long essay on train journey by prasanna, 1. reasons to go on a journey, 2. trip vs. journey, 3. how to enjoy long journeys, 4. my most memorable journey, 5. what makes a journey meaningful, 6. my dream journey, 7. a hero’s journey.

“I had to save a lot of money because I wanted very much to go on this journey with my friends. We planned our trip to take us around Europe. We were going to stop in various parts of Europe with family members and friends.”

The essay mimics Pittman’s travel itinerary during her journey in Europe. She includes all the trip details from the first to the last day and makes the readers feel as if they’re traveling with them. Pittman also offers some travel tips to help anyone who wants to visit Europe on a budget. These tips include staying with friends and relatives and taking comfortable train rides despite long distances.

“With proper planning, everything else seems effortless. You need to consider all factors when planning in order for you to enjoy a successful, stress-free adventure.”

The author believes that the primary purpose of traveling is to relax and have fun. They use the essay to teach how to plan car trips properly. Travelers must learn to budget and estimate expenses, including accommodation, gas, activities, and food. Picking a transportation means is also crucial as one needs to consider factors such as capacity, range, and utility. 

“Although things didn’t go how I planned I’m still in college bettering myself and furthering my education. Anything is possible with a good support system and positive mindset.”

The essay narrates how the author’s journey into adulthood becomes a mini-vacation in Georgia after their top university rejects their enrollment. This rejection offers the opportunity to understand many great life lessons. Despite having five other universities to choose from, the writer realizes they only provide free tuition for the first semester. Ultimately, the author receives a full scholarship to a university closer to home.

“All people have the same journey to take – their life. As well as in the other journeys, there may be some inconveniences, disappointments and joys, and a lot depends on how we plan this particular journey and what attitude we develop towards it.”

In this essay, the writer shares that the best way to go on a life journey is with the most joy and minor damage you can endure. It’s constant work to continuously improve one’s life while developing positive qualities and thinking. But in doing so, you’ll have a solid foundation to achieve what you want out of life. However, the author still reminds the readers that they should always be ready to face unexpected events and deal with them in the best way possible.

“These days, people prefer traveling via airplanes because it is time-saving. But going by plane gets boring and monotonous. Train journeys are a relief from the monotony.”

For Prasanna, whether it’s a short or extended tour, a train journey offers an exciting travel experience. She talks about the local and regional trains in India, which are often overcrowded but still used by many as they are the cheapest, safest, and fastest mode of transport in the country. She also mentions that you’ll never get hungry when riding their local trains because of the vendors who sell Indian delicacies. 

7 Prompts for Essays About Journeys 

Everyone has different motives for traveling. Some go on a journey to appreciate beautiful sceneries, while some move to attend family or work-related gatherings. Some do so to run away from problems. For this prompt, research the common reasons to travel. You can also interview people on why they go on a journey and add any personal experiences. 

It’s a trip when a person travels from one point to another without any transfers. Meanwhile, a journey is a more extended voyage that includes transfers and several trips. Compare and contrast trips and journeys to make your readers understand their similarities and differences. You can also have the advantages and disadvantages of each in your paper.

If writing an essay sounds like a lot of work, simplify it. Write a simple 5 paragraph essay instead.

The idea of having a long journey and discovering new things is exciting. However, the excitement can disappear when you’re far away from home. This is especially true for longer and farther travels. This prompt will help readers have a safer, more affordable, and more enjoyable trip by discussing the best long-distance travel tips. You can present an imaginary itinerary with estimated costs to make the essay more digestible.

Write about an unforgettable journey you’ve had through this prompt. Include the purpose of your travel, how you planned it, and if your timetable was followed. Share what you’ll improve on next time to make your journey even better; you can also talk about your companions and the activities that make the adventure worthwhile.

Journeys become meaningful when they enrich lives. It can be because of the destination, the people you are with, or the travel’s goal. Use this prompt to suggest how journeys improve us as humans. You can section your piece based on an individual’s objectives. For example, someone who wants to recharge and get away from the city will find meaning in going to a location far from technology.

Although traveling can be tiring, 43% of travelers appreciate the experience they gain. Think of journeys you desire to be in and add your reasons. Then, you can share your plan on how to make it happen. For instance, you want to tour Southeast Asia and visit countries like the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand. To make this dream journey come true, you’ll save for an entire year and work around a tight budget.

It’s normal to see the main character in a movie or novel go through a character arc before they become a true hero. Use this prompt to explain a hero’s journey and why the character must go through it. To give you an idea, Peter Parker was a shy and introverted kid who lived an everyday life before becoming Spider-Man. This makes him relatable to the audience and lets them understand his decisions in the following scenes.

For more examples, check out our guide to movies that follow the hero’s journey .

You can also talk about real-life heroes, such as doctors and firefighters. Interview someone with that profession and ask them why they decided to have their current career.

Maria Caballero is a freelance writer who has been writing since high school. She believes that to be a writer doesn't only refer to excellent syntax and semantics but also knowing how to weave words together to communicate to any reader effectively.

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1.2 Your Academic Journey and Personal Story

Questions to Consider:

• How can your academic journey develop skills needed for college success?
• How can your personal story prepare you for applying to college?

Your Academic Journey

Now that you have a better understanding of what college can do for you, it is time to focus on how high school is preparing you for college, or better yet, how you can prepare yourself in high school to become college ready. It is clear that what you do (or don’t do) in high school can affect your ability to get into the colleges of your choice, but there is more to preparing yourself than just earning a high GPA or class rank. Your high school education can provide you with ample opportunity to help you hone your academic skills.

Take Difficult Courses

Any student who is serious about applying to college should consider taking challenging classes while in high school. Why? Because those classes can help lay a foundation of high expectations and hard work and they are often highly regarded by college admissions counselors. These classes are sometimes called Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or honors/advanced classes. If you are considering taking such courses, talk to your guidance counselor or current teachers. They may be able to offer suggestions for how to get selected (if there is an application process) and give you a realistic picture of what will be expected. There is no need to take all AP, IB, or advanced classes to prove you are ready for college, but taking a few can provide a college admissions committee evidence that you are open to challenge.

Manage Time and Tasks

If there is one skill that you can develop now that will help you throughout your college career, it is the ability to manage your time and complete tasks. If you already use a planner to track what you need to do and when it is due , then you are on the right track. You can enhance these skills by setting reminders for yourself—and not relying on teachers or parents to tell you when to complete or submit an assignment. The most important part of managing your time and tasks effectively is to build in time well before something is due to complete the work and to overestimate (at least initially) how long you need, which can provide time “buffers” that will keep you from rushing through work to finish it.

Learn to Learn

Earlier, you were introduced to the argument that the purpose of college is to become a learner. You don’t have to wait until college, though, to figure out how best to learn different subject matters. This is one reason you should consider taking challenging classes–they require that you put more time and effort in them to learn the material. And those skills will make transitioning to college much easier. How can you “learn to learn”? You may have little control over what you are learning and how you are tested, but you can control how you approach the learning. One way to learn how to learn is to space out your learning over time (as best as you can—sometimes teachers like to give you a pop quiz when you least expect it!). Reviewing a bit of material for a short amount of time over several days (as opposed to cramming it in right before a test) produces better results. Another way to learn how to learn is to monitor how well your learning strategies work. Did you do well on a test? Take some time to reflect on what you did that resulted in a good grade. Did you space out your studying? Did you look for connections in the material? Likewise, if you do poorly on a test, determine what led to the result. The more you can identify what works and doesn’t for you, the easier it is to make improvements in your learning strategies.

Demonstrate Integrity and Ownership of Learning

Being a high school student often means having a lot on your plate. It can be easy to put off homework and studying, not do it at all, or cut corners to complete the work. While you may be able to get away with some stumbles like forgetting to turn in an assignment, other behaviors, such as getting someone (including Artificial Intelligence software) to do your homework or write a paper for you can get you into trouble. Now is the time to build the skills you will need later in college. Taking full responsibility for your learning as well as demonstrating integrity in all assignments no matter how big or small are the foundation of those skills. How do you do this? For one, you acknowledge that every action or inaction will produce a result. If you put in the work to write the paper, you will earn the grade you receive. If you do not put in the work or find a way to shortcut the process by using someone else’s writing, then you have missed an opportunity to improve your writing, your thinking, and your project management skills. Plus, you may get into trouble for academic dishonesty, which could mean failing an assignment or a course, or getting a more substantial punishment, such as expulsion. The stakes only get higher when you are in college.

Keep Test Scores in Perspective

You will learn more about standardized test scores and their purpose for getting into college later in this chapter, but it is worth noting that while what you make on the ACT, SAT, or equivalent standardized test, may factor into your ability to get into and pay for the college of your dreams, it is not necessarily a reflection of who you are and what you are capable of. Definitely do all you can to raise your test scores through practicing, prepping, and doing your best on the day of the test. But do not assume that a low test score will be the end of your long-term goals or educational journey. They are just one piece of information by which an institution may evaluate your potential, but it shouldn’t be the only thing that tells who you are.

Your Personal Story

Just as important as your academic journey is your personal story. You will need to develop and reflect on both for your applications to college and scholarships. Those who read about you will want to know not only about your accomplishments, but also your challenges and how you have overcome them.

What Makes You Unique

It may seem cliché to say “There is only one you!” But there is some truth in the fact that you are unique—there is no one else like you. To that end, you may want to draw upon those unique characteristics as you begin to shape the story that you will share with college admissions staff and scholarship committees. Will you be the first in your family to go to college? Do you live on a working farm and feed the goats, cows, and horses every morning before school? Can you ride a unicycle or juggle or both? There may be both personal characteristics as well as experiences that make you stand out from others, and if there are, consider weaving these details into the tapestry of your story. Start by making a list of your characteristics—no trait is too small or typical at this point. You can eliminate items later when you start building your story, but for now, create the list and add to it as you think of new things that you are or can do.

Getting Gritty

Many college essay prompts include an opportunity to share a time in your life in which you faced adversity and overcame it. For some students, this prompt is difficult for they have either not experienced a life-changing setback or not considered themselves challenged. It is important to remember that any setback or disappointment—no matter how inconsequential it may seem to you—can be the basis for an essay that responds to such a prompt. There is no need to embellish the circumstance if it is truly not harrowing, but it is acceptable to frame the experience as something that was difficult for you. Most readers of essays are less looking for a made-for-Hollywood story and more wanting to see someone who has demonstrated tenacity, resilience, and reflection no matter how big or small the adversity is. Even if you are not required to write an essay on a time in your life in which you failed or experienced disappointment, having a story handy for interviews (for scholarships, internships, or jobs) can help you share insight into your personality and strengths in a succinct way.

Finding the Themes of Your Life

In Katharine Brooks’ (2010) book You Majored in What? 3 she shares a writing and reflecting activity called “Wandering Pathways and Butterfly Moments” that guides readers through a series of prompts to develop a list of life experiences for the purpose of discovering what career pathway may be most fruitful for them to pursue. These life experiences could be as monumental as moving to a new state and starting a new school or they can be as mundane as spending the summers fishing. The goal of the exercise is to record what you have done or what has happened to you to get a sense of a “story.” These stories are built upon the connections and themes that you see in the experiences. Here are some of the life experiences Brooks wants you to consider when you are crafting your personal story.

• What have you done during the summer or holiday breaks from school?
• What did you play when you were a young child?
• What are some of your major life experiences (e.g. family events such as births, deaths, marriages, divorces)?
• What do people say you do well or have a talent for or seek you out for?
• What do you consider your greatest achievements?
• What jobs have you had?
• What groups have you belonged to?
• What awards have you won?
• What lessons have you learned?
• What do you like to do for fun?
• What kind of “secret” talent do you have?

The goal of answering the questions is to capture as much about who you are and how you have been shaped to develop clear connections among the life elements and create themes. These themes can drive your personal story that can share on a deeper level who you are or who you are becoming.

Consider this scenario: Raphael has taken the time to write down his life experiences so he can build his personal narrative. Some of the answers to the questions above include the following:

• Raphael’s jobs: lifeguard, babysitter for his nieces and nephews, tutor, art teacher for elementary students
• Raphael’s hobbies and interests: watching old movies, volunteering at the library, creating original jewelry from natural objects
• Raphael’s awards and accolades: he won a writing contest in 11th grade, his friends come to him for advice, he has earned high grades in all of his classes
• Raphael’s major life events: parents divorced when he was 6 years old, he started a new school in junior high, his aunt passed away when he was 14 years old

From this short list, Raphael can begin to draw out themes that he can use to create a detailed picture of who he is. He has found himself in teaching roles with his jobs. He has a love for the arts as evidenced by his hobbies. He is a good communicator evidenced by his awards and accolades, and relationships are an important part of his life. Raphael can use those themes—and details from his experiences—to craft his story as someone who has demonstrated an interest in connecting with and helping others by sharing his expertise and experience.

Recognizing the themes in your life helps you to describe how you've become the person you are now, and helps you to understand who you will become.

"For me, becoming isn't about arriving somewhere or achieving a certain aim. I see it instead as forward motion, a means of evolving, a way to reach continuously toward a better self. The journey doesn't end" —former First Lady Michelle Obama , Becoming (2018)

Analysis Question

In what ways is your academic journey in high school shaping your personal narrative? Describe how the following experiences are helping you “become":

• The classes that you are taking
• The activities you participate in as part of school (e.g., sports, performing arts, etc.)
• The learning that you are doing outside of school (e.g., community language class)

In what ways are your personal experiences shaping your story? Describe how the following experiences are helping you “become”:

• Major life events
• Favorite activities
• Awards and accomplishments
• Jobs or volunteer work
• 3 Brooks, K.(2010). You majored in what? Plume.

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Essay on Train Journey for Students and Children

500+ words essay on train journey.

First of all, a journey refers to traveling from one place to another. When it comes to journeys, train journeys take the top spot. A train journey certainly is a wonderfully joyous occasion. Furthermore, train journeys fill individuals with a feeling of intense excitement. This mode of the journey is best when the travel distance is long. A train journey creates an aura that cannot be experienced with other types of journeys.

My Experience of Journey by Train

I have always been an avid supporter of train journeys. My involvement with train journeys began in childhood . I live in Lucknow and from here I have undertaken many train journeys. Furthermore, since childhood, I have paid several visits to the hill station of Almora to meet my relatives. Almora is a hill station located in the state of Uttarakhand. Most noteworthy, Almora is situated in the Himalayan mountain region. Due to this, trains cannot travel directly to Almora. Consequently, Kathgodam is the last town station accessible by trains before the mountain range begins.

The trip from Lucknow to kathgodam is quite a lively experience. I have always ensured the reservation of my seats beforehand. So, my train journey begins from Lucknow railway station. As the train undergoes motion and leaves the Lucknow railway station, my excitement begins to rise. Moreover, as the train gathers speed, a thrilling feeling overtakes me.

My train journey from Lucknow to Kathgodam is probably 8-10 hours duration. However, I enjoy every minute of it in spite of the journey being so long. Furthermore, all along the journey, one can purchase items of food and drinks. I almost always purchase meals and refreshments at least twice in the journey.

When slumber overtakes me, I make use of the sleeping berth. I personally find sleeping on the train berth very comfortable. When I wake after a deep sleep, mountains are visible from a distance. Moreover, as the train approaches Kathgodam with menacing speed, the view of mountains gets bigger and bigger. Also, my amusement greatly rises as I see the Himalayas draw closer. Finally, as the train stops at Kathgodam, my delightful train journey comes to an end.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Why Do I Like to Travel by Train?

Comfort is one of the biggest advantages of a train journey. Most noteworthy, one can move freely in a train cabin. Furthermore, in trains, there is a possibility of an ample foot room. Moreover, trains offer comfortable sleeping berths. All of this makes the train journey a relaxing experience.

Beautiful sightseeing is another noteworthy benefit of train journeys. As the train travels, one can enjoy the views of the countryside, farms, forests , factories, etc. This makes train journeys more comprehensive than journeys by air or road.

Train journeys offer a variety of opportunities to pass time. Furthermore, the train offers a sociable environment. In train journeys, conversations between passengers almost always take place. One can make new friends with traveling passengers on the train easily. Also, one can spend time in a handsome manner on a train journey. In a train journey, one can spend time reading something, listening to music, watching videos, sleeping/resting comfortably, etc.

To sum it up, train journeys are truly one of a kind. The train journey offers uniqueness like no other journey. Most noteworthy, the charm of such a journey is unmatchable. The train journey certainly offers an unforgettable rich experience.

Q1 Why does the writer sleeps so deeply in trains?

A1 The writer sleeps deeply in trains because he finds sleeping on the train berth very comfortable.

Q2 What makes train journeys so journeys so comfortable?

A2 Trains journeys certainly are very comfortable. First of all, one can move freely in a train cabin. Furthermore, there is ample foot room possibility and comfortable sleeping berths on the train.

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Tips for Writing a Good Academic Essay on a Journey

Students and workers living or working in one city today can enroll in learning programs miles away from their homes. This necessitates constant travel which ordinarily would translate to lost time. However, it is now possible to work on your classwork on the go. If you have an academic essay to work on, you can do it during travel by leveraging online resources, getting inspiration from your surroundings, working with an online essay writer among ways.

The ease of transport and communication in today’s world has changed many things. In education, more young people opt to travel far away from their homes for work and school. A 2013 Forbes Report indicated that young tourists had the spending power to create a travel boom. In 2012 for instance, Young Tourists spent $217 Billion and most of these were students and young employees backpacking through far-flung places. Even during travel, these students have to complete assignments. If you plan to travel across the world and you have an academic essay to complete, there are several ways to write a winning paper and submit it on time. You can use the tips below or opt to find a college paper for sale from a reputable writer.

Keep reading for tips to write your essay on the go.

Why Complete Assignments on The Go?

A BBC report by the international Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development in 2012 showed the number of international students worldwide increased by 12% over the last one decade. This means that during travel, these students have to complete classwork.

A similar report by the Boston Consulting Group published on The Atlantic says 20% of nearly 200 million travelers are young people. This means even as they have fun; they have a lot of schoolwork to tackle.

With a lot of time on their hands, it is important for student travelers to find a balance between life and school. What this guarantees their travel doesn’t interfere with their learning programs. In essence, traveling should complement the learning process not disrupt it.

How to Complete You Academic Essay When Travelling

Whether you commute daily to school, travel to school or you have a writing project to complete while on holiday, the following tips will come in handy:

1. Read Essay Instructions Beforehand

You have to know what your essay is about before you hit the road. It is important to go through the project guidelines before you start your journey as it makes it easier to seek clarifications. Make sure you understand every aspect of the project before your journey.

2. Gather the Necessary Materials

Before you hit the road, you need to get any materials you can find. These will go into your backpack in case you have a long trip. For your daily commute, you will add these materials to your college bag. Once on the road, you can start researching for your essay now that you have some references.

3. Schedule the Task

You have to determine how much time you have while on the road and dedicate some of the available time to your essay. For instance, if you have several days on the road, you can dedicate an hour in the evenings for research and writing. Stick to the writing schedule you have created to ensure the project gets done within the stipulated time.

4. Find an Easy-To-Relate Topic

When traveling, your mind will most likely be on the road. There are many distractions along the way, and for this reason, you need to find an interesting topic which you can easily write about. Avoid complex topics if you want to complete your essay on the road.

5. Use Your Surroundings For Inspiration

Travelling is one of the most relaxing experiences. Whether you are on business, leisure or just on the bus to school, you should use your surroundings to get motivation for your essay. Take time to drink in the surroundings and focus your mind on the academic essay.

6. Prepare an Outline For Your Essay

The easiest trick to complete your academic essay during a journey is to create a detailed essay outline. This is your roadmap and it helps you complete your essay fast. The outline must include the introduction (plus the thesis statement), body paragraphs (literature review, research, findings) and a conclusion. You have to indicate where different ideas will go in your essay. With a well-detailed outline, you will find it easy to write the first draft.

7. Utilize Online Resources

When on the road, you might not have access to a broad range of resources but luckily, the internet can help you here. You can now go online and find the best writing program to help with time management, planning and research. Alternatively, you can use one of the established essay writing services to find a capable writer for your project. These experts deliver tailored essays and you will save a lot of time and avoid the hassle of researching while traveling .

Travelling is inevitable in modern society and you might find yourself on the road many times. If you have school work to complete, these tips will help you out. You should always plan for the task, gather the necessary materials and create a schedule for the project. If you have no time on your hands, look for websites advertising writing jobs for college students and post your project. You will find a dedicated essay writer to help through the project.

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A Journey by Train Essay | Short & Long Essays for Students

A Journey by Train Essay in English: In this article, you are going to learn how to write an essay on a journey by train in English. We’ve provided both long and short essays here. So, let’s begin.

A Journey by Train Essay/Paragraph

During last summer vacation, I went on a family trip to Puri with my family. This was my first long journey by train. We reached the Howrah railway station with all our luggage quite early. The train departed from Howrah at around 9 o’clock in the morning. When I looked outside everything was running behind, I loved that scene. The train was moving quite fast. The whole train was crowded.

After boarding, we had our breakfast. I always prefer a window seat, because I can enjoy beautiful nature from there. I was impressed by the beauty of the landscape. Watching the beautiful natural scenes outside gave me extreme happiness. The train finally reached the Puri station at 6 o’clock in the evening. It was an exciting train journey.

Also Read: A Memorable Day in My Life

Short Essay on A Journey by Train

Train journeys are always very exciting. We get to meet a lot of new people. Two weeks back had a train journey. The name of the train was Howrah-Dhanbad Black Diamond Express. My destination was Asansol. The train departed from Howrah around 6.40 in the morning. The weather was pleasant and I took a window seat.

Most of the passengers inside the train compartment were either reading a newspaper or sleeping. I started reading one of my favourite novels. The constant yelling of the hawkers forced me to close the book and look out of the window. Around 8.30 in the morning I bought a cup of coffee and a packet of biscuits from a hawker. Having small sips in the coffee concentrated on the visuals and images that changed rapidly outside the train compartment.

I noticed that concrete jungle have paved its way to lush green fields and ponds with trees surrounding them. Farmers were tilling children were going to school through the mud track. The ambiance outside was serene and in complete contrast with the atmosphere inside the train.

Also Read: Essay on Visit to a Hill Station

Introduction:

Once I read a poem. I still remember some of  its lines as follows:

“All of the sights of the hill and the plain Fly as thick as driving rain; And ever again, in the wink of an eye Painted stations whistle by.” (From A Railway Carriage-RL Stevenson)

A journey by a speeding train is an exciting experience. The modern age seems to be obsessed with speed. So people prefer to travel by the railways than by road.

Description of the Journey:

One day, my father announced that we were going to visit Shantiniketan during the winter holidays. I was simply thrilled. On the scheduled day, we reached Howrah station in the morning. The Shantiniketan Express stood majestically at the platform. The station was humming with the din and bustle. There were rings of people before the ticket counters. We entered a compartment and settled down for the journey. I managed a seat beside a window. Soon the signal was green at the far end of the platform. Within a minute, the train began to move. We glided out of the station. Then it picked up speed.

As the train thundered on, I surrendered my ears to the rattle of the train wheels. They were making rickety-rackety sounds when they rolled over the tracks. I looked outside through the window to get a view of the Nature outside. The train was passing by harvested fields, meadows, brooklets, and small ponds. Through the window, the world outside looked like a motion picture. Everything looked very bright and pleasant in the morning sunshine.

I looked about my compartment. Father was flipping through a magazine. Mother was chatting with an elderly couple. The hawkers and vendors were selling various foodstuffs. A beggar was singing a song while begging. In the meantime, the train reached at Guskara station. After half an hour it reached Bolpur.

My Feelings:

I got spellbound to see the fantastic wild beauty of nature through the window. The greatness of God manifested in nature’s creations. I remembered some lines of a poem-

“The true pleasing spirits sight’s That may breed true love’s delights” (Nicholas Breton)

The breeze was gentle, fresh, glorious, and a pleasure to breathe. It was pouring into our compartment from outside. I sometimes lost my sense of individuality and seemed to expand through the window. Thus, I wanted to establish a magical link with nature.

Conclusion:

Thus ended my first train journey. This journey was so pleasant that l experienced an intense high.

Read More: 1. Essay on a Visit to a Zoo 2. Essay on a Visit to a Historical Place 3. Essay on a Visit to a Book Fair

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• Essay On Train Journey

Train Journey Essay

500+ words essay on train journey.

A journey by train is the most common thing in today’s modern world. Since all of us need to travel far distances, we need transportation for that. Trains come out to be the best and most economical option among all transportation facilities available. The journey by train makes us feel pleasure and fills us with excitement. All of us must have gone on a vacation with family by taking a journey by train. In this essay on a train journey, I am going to share my first time travelling experience by train. You can also check out the list of CBSE Essays . Practise writing “a Train Journeyssay” to boost your writing skills.

A Journey by Train Essay

A train is not just a transport vehicle. It connects people; it provides access to jobs, communities and goods. It delivers vital social services. Trains are the backbone of the transportation system, which help in creating a sustainable economy. We have often read books and magazines that mention the beautiful experience of train journeys. By reading them, our heart fills with adventure, thrill and happiness.

My First Experience of Train Journey

A journey by train always excites me. It is fun to travel by train. I have been travelling by train since my childhood. The first time I experienced the train journey was when I was studying in Class 6. During my summer vacation, my parents planned to visit Nainital. My father had already booked the train tickets for AC3 Class two months before.

We were staying in Lucknow, and from there, our train journey began. We reached Lucknow Charbagh Station one hour before the train departure time. Lucknow station was 7-8 km far away from our home. So, my father booked a taxi, and we reached Lucknow station. After reaching the station, my father checked for the train timing and platform number on which the train had to arrive. The train was on time, and we had to go to platform number 5. We did not have much luggage, so we did not take coolies. My father took 2 suitcases, and my mother took one bag. Before going to platform number 5, we purchased some chips, water bottles and biscuits.

The station was crowded with people. There were tea stalls, food counters, coolies and many other passengers like us waiting for their train. I could hear a lot of noise in the station, which was due to train announcements, coolies and tea sellers. Hearing the noise and looking at the trains as 1 hour passed, I didn’t get to know. Now, it was time for our train to arrive. We comfortably entered the train and reached our seats. My seat was in the lower berth, so I was happy that I could see all the views from my window seat.

The train gave a hooter sound, and then it started. I was so excited and filled with curiosity and enthusiasm. As the train has taken up speed, I feel as if trees and homes are moving along with us. I asked my mother, “Is it really happening?” Then, my mother replied, “Trees and homes are not moving. As we are sitting in the train and the train is moving at a fast speed, that is why things around us seem to be moving along with us. In reality, we are moving, and other things are static in their respective places.” Then, I understood the concept. For some time, I was peacefully enjoying the scene from my window.

On the train, my experience was very joyful. In our front seat, there was also one family. We played the ludo game, name the places and antakshari. In between the games, we also had snacks and lunch. The train had stopped at the major station, and people were getting down and sitting up on the train. As the train stops at any station, many of the food sellers enter the train to sell their items and get down when the train starts running. This process repeats at every station where the train stops.

Finally, after 10 hours of travelling, it was time for the Kathgodam station to arrive, where we had to get down. Before the Kathgodam station, I could see the mountains and greenery from the window seat. At that time, I got to know that we had come to Hill station to enjoy our summer vacation. We got down in Kathgodam station, and from there, we booked a taxi for Nainital. After 2 hours of road journey, we reached Nainital.

Nainital is such a beautiful place. It is surrounded by mountains all around. From the mountains, a lake called “Nani Lake” was flowing, which increased the beauty of Nainital. The temperature of the Nainital was so pleasant that we felt relieved from summer and heat. We did many activities like boat riding and mountain climbing. We have visited many sites and also done a lot of shopping. After spending 3 days in Nainital, we again took a train from Kathgodam station to Lucknow and came back home. The experience was awesome for me. I will never forget this enjoyable journey by train.

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Essay on A Journey by Train in English for Children

Table of Contents

Essay on A Journey by Train: Train journeys are quite exciting and interesting experiences. A journey by train is not only fascinating but also comfortable and economical for long distances. I have had the pleasure of traveling to several places by train, and these journeys have given me some of the best memories of my life. They have been the most relaxing and thrilling experiences one can have.

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Watching villages, cultures, and houses pass by as you speed across the countryside has always piqued my curiosity for better. It’s truly fascinating how a train journey can enhance your knowledge about cultures, regions, languages, and cuisines. The journey is like reading a captivating book that has all the ingredients to keep you entertained until you reach your destination.

One significant advantage of a journey by train is that it provides an excellent opportunity to interact with people from completely different ethnicities and linguistic backgrounds. The diversity of passengers on a train is like a Railway Journey Narrative in itself, where you can learn from the stories and experiences of your fellow travelers.

Long and Short Essay on A Journey by Train in English

Below we have provided long and short essay on ‘A Journey by Train’ of varying lengths in English.

These ‘A Journey by Train’ essay will take you through the experiences of a train journey and their advantages.

They will also prove helpful to help you with the topic in your exam.

You can select any A Journey by Train Essay as per your interest like essay on a journey by train 100 words, essay on a journey by train 100 words essay on my first train journey in 200 words and present it in your class, essay writing or debate competitions.

Short Essay on a Journey by Train Essay 1 (100 words)

Train journeys are both exciting and memorable. My first train journey was when I was in the 2nd standard, traveling to my aunt’s wedding in Dehradun. It was a night journey, and we boarded the train with eager anticipation. With family and relatives, the journey was filled with laughter, games, and delicious train food.

As morning broke, I gazed out of the window, captivated by the picturesque scenery. The lush green fields, the rising sun, and the distant hills created a mesmerizing view. This train journey left an indelible mark on my memory, combining the joy of travel with the beauty of nature.

Short Essay on ‘A Journey by Train’ – Essay 2 (200 words)

Short essay on ‘a journey by train’ – essay 1 (200 words).

Train journeys are super fun, especially when traveling by train with a group of friends. One of my most memorable journeys by train was my journey from Delhi to Jaipur. It was a school trip, and we were all really excited about it. We had numerous plans for the trip and were especially looking forward to having a great time on our way.

We all reached the railway station by 6 in the morning, and the train ride started within a few minutes. I occupied the window seat to see the view outside. The view of the green fields, muddy roads, and huts on the way was delightful. My best friend sat beside me, and we chatted as we looked outside.

Soon, it was time for breakfast. I loved the cutlets and bread served on the train. We also had hot tomato soup after having a plate of bread and cutlets. After breakfast, we all decided to play antakshari . Playing antakshari in large groups is always fun. Our teachers also joined us, thereby adding to the fun. We played antakshari for the rest of the journey, and before we even knew it, we had reached our destination. It was a great experience. The company of my friends made this train journey all the more gleeful.

Essay on ‘A Journey by Train to Shimla’ – Essay 3 (300 words)

Train journeys hold a unique charm, especially when they lead to enchanting destinations like Shimla. However, what makes the journey even more captivating is the special toy train that runs from Kalka to Shimla, winding through breathtaking landscapes. A trip to Shimla remains incomplete without experiencing this iconic train ride. Thus, we planned our Shimla trip well in advance and secured our tickets for this much-talked-about train journey.

Our Journey to Shimla by Toy Train

During last year’s autumn break, we embarked on a memorable journey to Shimla. We began our travel by bus to Kalka, the starting point of our adventure with the toy train. Initially, I expected it to be just another train journey, offering glimpses of mountains and valleys. However, it turned out to be an exhilarating and extraordinary experience. Throughout our journey, we found ourselves immersed in the lap of nature, not merely observing the mountains, valleys, and lush greenery, but feeling like an integral part of this natural wonder as the train gracefully traversed the mountains.

Spanning a duration of 5-6 hours, this journey was filled with thrills and excitement. The route featured a multitude of tunnels and bridges that added to the allure. There were more than 100 tunnels and approximately 800 bridges along the route. I remained glued to the window seat, relishing the splendid vistas outside. At one point, the train made a brief stop at a quaint station, affording us a brief ten-minute break to explore.

Throughout the journey, my parents and brother shared in my delight, finding it as enjoyable as I did. We chose the same train for our return journey, unwilling to miss out on a second opportunity to savor this captivating experience.

Undoubtedly, this train journey stands out as the most remarkable one in my life. My deep love for nature made this journey even more special. I sincerely hope for a chance to traverse this enchanting route once more, as it left an indelible mark on my heart.

Essay on ‘My First Train Journey’ – Essay4 (400 words)

My First Train Journey

My very first train journey was an unforgettable experience that I embarked on when I was in the 2nd standard. It was a special trip to attend my maternal aunt’s wedding in Dehradun. As soon as the news of the wedding spread, excitement and joy filled our home. My mother began planning her outfits, while my father organized our travel arrangements. We decided to travel by train, accompanied by a few relatives, marking my maiden voyage on a train.

Planning the Train Journey

Train journeys require meticulous planning for a smooth and enjoyable trip. My parents carefully studied the available trains on our route to select the most convenient option. We booked our tickets well in advance, packed our bags, and ensured that all necessary arrangements were in place for our journey.

The Journey Begins

Our train journey commenced as a night voyage. We arrived at the railway station on time, settled into our seats, and, within a few minutes, the train began its journey.

Fun on the Way

As we greeted our relatives and settled in for the long journey, there was an air of excitement. Many of us hadn’t seen each other in months, so there was plenty to catch up on. I sat with my cousins, and we eagerly planned to make the most of this train journey. They had brought along board games, and we engaged in an entertaining one.

After a few rounds of the game, it was time for dinner. The food served on the train was surprisingly delectable. Following dinner, I found a cozy spot by the window. Despite the darkness of the night, I enjoyed the rhythmic sounds of the moving train, a novel experience for me.

As everyone finished their meals, we decided to play antakshari . Our relatives enthusiastically joined in, and we sang songs and played antakshari for an hour before it was time to rest.

A Scenic Morning

The next morning, I awoke early and was greeted by a stunning view outside the window. The lush green fields, the rising sun, the distant hills, and the charming huts along the way — everything appeared exceptionally beautiful. This scenic morning view was the highlight of my train journey.

In hindsight, my first train journey was incredibly exciting and fascinating. I cherished every moment of it, and the delightful company of my cousins added an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience.

Long Essay on Journey by Train

Essay on ‘a memorable journey by train’ – essay 4 (500 words).

Introduction

I have gone on many train journeys with my family as well as friends. Travelling by train is comfortable and enjoyable. I always prefer train journeys over road trips for the experience they offer. I have made great memories on these trips. While I have enjoyed all my train journeys, my train travel from Delhi to Goa is the closest to my heart.

Journey from Delhi to Goa

I went for a trip to Goa with my classmates when I was in seventh standard. The trip was planned by the school. After much persuasion, my parents agreed to send me on the trip. Most of my friends also got the consent from their parents. We planned to do a lot of fun things on the trip.

Besides, site-seeing and having fun with friends on the trip, I was also excited about the train journey. The train journey from Delhi to Goa was for around one and a half day. This was the longest journey I had ever gone on. I was really looking forward to it.

My parents dropped me to the station. They were a bit anxious as this was the first time I was travelling so far without them. My mother gave me last minute instructions and I nodded obediently as I eagerly awaited the train. We left from Delhi at around 5 in the evening. I sat by the window with one of my friends by my side.

Travelling with Friends

Travelling with friends is always fun. I had been to Jaipur, Nanital and Shimla with my friends. All these trips were planned by our school. We travelled by train on all these trips and had a lot of fun on the way but none of them involved so much travelling. Most of these were overnight journeys. But on our trip to Goa we spent one night and one and a half day in the train.

I kept sitting by the window for the first two-three hours of the journey. I loved the view outside. As it started getting dark, I joined my friends who were playing dumb charades. We kept playing this game until it was time for dinner. After having our dinner, we chatted until late night. We shared our experiences, narrated interesting stories and mimicked our teachers. It was all great fun. I slept comfortably at night and woke up late.

The breakfast was served almost immediately after I woke up. After having the breakfast, I went and stood by the train door which was half opened. The view outside was beautiful. I love nature and I can watch the trees, hills and the water bodies for hours. It soothes and pleases my senses and offers a delightful experience.

I kept standing there for a long time. One of my friends joined me there. We enjoyed the view and spoke about our love for travelling and nature. During the rest of the day, we played games, had food and chatted with each other. We reached Goa at around 11 at night.

This train journey was an awesome experience. I enjoyed it thoroughly and made several beautiful memories on the way.

Long Essay on ‘A Journey by Train’ – Essay 5 (600 words)

Train journeys are economical, comfortable and fascinating. It is a complete experience in itself. While travelling by train, I am not eager to reach the destination, I rather enjoy each moment of the journey. I have made many friends during my train journeys and had several new experiences.

Advantages of Journey by Train

Train journeys offer numerous advantages. Some of these advantages are shared below:

• One of the main advantages of train journey is the comfort and convenience it offers. Unlike cars, buses and aeroplanes, you have the option to lie down and sleep while travelling by train. Overnight journey by train is thus much more convenient compared to that by car or bus. One can sleep comfortably through the night and wake up fresh.
• There is no restriction on the luggage. One can carry as much luggage as he wants while travelling via train unlike the aeroplanes where a limit is set for the same.
• Trains have washrooms that make long journeys more convenient.
• One can study or work comfortably on a laptop during train journey. Thus, the time spent in travelling can be put to productive use.
• Trains are quite economical as compared to cabs and aeroplanes. One can travel long distance at a nominal cost.

Disadvantages of Journey by Train

While train journeys offer a number of advantages, there are certain disadvantages attached to them too. Here is a look at these disadvantages:

• One of the biggest disadvantages of travelling by train is that one needs to plan the trip and get the tickets booked days before the journey. This is quite unlike travelling by car or bus wherein one can plan the trip and get going even the next day.
• Booking the ticket can be quite taxing. People who go to the railway station to book the tickets need to stand in the queue for hours. Booking train tickets online is also quite time consuming as the railway booking site sometimes get quite slow due to increased traffic.
• Though the trains have washrooms and restrooms, these are not as clean and hygienic as they should be.
• Trains often get delayed due to different reasons. This can be quite annoying and exhausting.
• Compared to aeroplanes, travel time taken by trains is much higher. It is not a good option for those who need to reach somewhere urgently.

My Train Journey Experience

I have been on many train journeys since my childhood. I have gone to Mount Abu, Udaipur, Varanasi, Shimla, Chandigarh, Lucknow, Bombay and many other places with family, friends and relatives. I have travelled to most of these places by train. What I love most about train journeys is the view outside. I love to sit by the window and watch the natural surroundings that come by during the journey. I often take a novel along as I love reading while travelling.

Train journeys become all the more fun when we are travelling in groups. There are so many fun things to do on the way. We crack jokes, sing songs, play games and chit chat for hours during the journey. We also get a chance to meet new people. It feels great when we meet like-minded people on our way. It makes the trip quite enjoyable. There is so much to talk about and share. I have made quite a few friends during my train journeys.

Train journeys have their set of advantages and disadvantages. While planning ahead, booking tickets and strict train schedules can be a put off; comfortable travel and good utilization of time are some of the advantages it offers. I have been on several train journeys and I really look forward to them.

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Frequently Asked Question on Essay on Journey by Train

How do you write a train journey.

To write about a train journey, vividly describe the sights, sounds, and emotions experienced during the trip. Begin with an engaging introduction, narrate the journey's details, and use descriptive language to engage your readers. Share personal anecdotes or reflections to make your account unique and relatable.

How do you write a journey by train essay?

Crafting a journey by train essay involves structuring your narrative. Start with an introduction, set the scene, and introduce any characters or events. Describe the journey, including scenery and experiences, and reflect on its significance or impact. Conclude by summarizing your thoughts and feelings.

What is a journey by train called?

A journey by train is commonly referred to as a train journey or simply traveling by train. It encompasses the experience of traveling on a train, often involving scenic views, interactions with fellow passengers, and the unique ambiance of train travel.

Is it travel by train or by train?

Both travel by train and by train are grammatically correct. You can use either phrase based on your preference. For example, you can say, I prefer to travel by train or I enjoy the experience of traveling by train.

Why should we travel by train?

Traveling by train offers several advantages. It's an eco-friendly mode of transportation, reducing carbon emissions. Trains are often cost-effective, comfortable, and allow passengers to appreciate scenic routes. Additionally, train travel can be less stressful than other modes, as it avoids issues like traffic congestion.

How was your first train journey?

My first train journey was a memorable experience filled with excitement. Traveling with my family, I marveled at the changing landscapes, relished train food, and enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow passengers. The rhythmic sounds of the train and the anticipation of the destination made it an unforgettable adventure.

Do we say travel by bus?

Yes, you can say travel by bus to describe a journey on a bus. It's a common and straightforward way to express the mode of transportation, indicating that you are using a bus as your means of travel.

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The Best Journey of My Life

There is nothing better than the emotions and feelings one can receive from setting out on an adventure. Journeys help us to forget about our everyday issues. That is why I want to tell you about the best journey of my life.

It started at home as I began to pack items for a journey. I was excited because my parents and I were going to Thailand, the most interesting place to me. I could not imagine what it would be like.

The first experience we had when we got out of the plane to enter Thailand was the tropical, wet, hot air that permeated the environment. We arrived at our hotel on the south of Phuket Island. Beauty seemed to be all around us. From the one side of the road there was the lush greenery of the tropical forest, from the other there were turquoise waves of the Andaman Sea.

We decided to spend our first days on a cozy seacoast and take a rest from a tiresome trip. The weather was wonderful. The sun was shining and the water was so warm, placid and limpid that we could see our shadows in it. I had the impression nothing else existed in this world besides us, nor the cares of everyday life nor urban fuss. We were enjoying every minute of our rest, slowly sipping coconut milk through a tube straight out of a coconut. The days were changing from one to another with new, bright, unforgettable emotions and impressions.

We wanted to pass one day away on motorbikes, studying the island. Our trip took a whole day and we managed to bike the half of the island riding along the coast. The views we saw on our journey showed us another side of local life. People were in a hurry going to work or attending other business. The traffic in Thailand is extremely busy and noisy. A lot of people ride motorbikes, which is a distinguishing feature of Thailand.

All the way long, we made breaks to taste the delicacies of the local cuisine in snack bars. I enjoyed Thai food immensely with its extraordinary combination of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. Sometimes the dishes were so spicy, that tears streamed from my eyes.

We also decided to diversify a bit, and go to less touristic parts of the island. Our island was covered by steep hills. The picturesque view of the tropical jungles and endless spaces of the sea with many adjoining islands, and the beauty and splendor of local nature was opened to us. I was overfilled with the sense of infinite freedom and peace of mind. There was the impression that nothing is necessary in life except this place and moment.

It was a truly sad realization when we knew we had to travel back home. The whirlwind of emotions and feelings swept over my mind: this is completely another world, with its climate, people, food, traditions, and customs that charm and dip you in the extraordinary atmosphere of calmness and composure. I remember it now with freshness and understand that it was the best journey of my life.

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Hero's Journey 101: How to Use the Hero's Journey to Plot Your Story

Dan Schriever

How many times have you heard this story? A protagonist is suddenly whisked away from their ordinary life and embarks on a grand adventure. Along the way they make new friends, confront perils, and face tests of character. In the end, evil is defeated, and the hero returns home a changed person.

That’s the Hero’s Journey in a nutshell. It probably sounds very familiar—and rightly so: the Hero’s Journey aspires to be the universal story, or monomyth, a narrative pattern deeply ingrained in literature and culture. Whether in books, movies, television, or folklore, chances are you’ve encountered many examples of the Hero’s Journey in the wild.

In this post, we’ll walk through the elements of the Hero’s Journey step by step. We’ll also study an archetypal example from the movie The Matrix (1999). Once you have mastered the beats of this narrative template, you’ll be ready to put your very own spin on it.

Sound good? Then let’s cross the threshold and let the journey begin.

What Is the Hero’s Journey?

The 12 stages of the hero’s journey, writing your own hero’s journey.

The Hero’s Journey is a common story structure for modeling both plot points and character development. A protagonist embarks on an adventure into the unknown. They learn lessons, overcome adversity, defeat evil, and return home transformed.

Joseph Campbell , a scholar of literature, popularized the monomyth in his influential work The Hero With a Thousand Faces (1949). Looking for common patterns in mythological narratives, Campbell described a character arc with 17 total stages, overlaid on a more traditional three-act structure. Not all need be present in every myth or in the same order.

The three stages, or acts, of Campbell’s Hero’s Journey are as follows:

1. Departure. The hero leaves the ordinary world behind.

2. Initiation. The hero ventures into the unknown ("the Special World") and overcomes various obstacles and challenges.

3. Return. The hero returns in triumph to the familiar world.

Hollywood has embraced Campbell’s structure, most famously in George Lucas’s Star Wars movies. There are countless examples in books, music, and video games, from fantasy epics and Disney films to sports movies.

In The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers (1992), screenwriter Christopher Vogler adapted Campbell’s three phases into the "12 Stages of the Hero’s Journey." This is the version we’ll analyze in the next section.

For writers, the purpose of the Hero’s Journey is to act as a template and guide. It’s not a rigid formula that your plot must follow beat by beat. Indeed, there are good reasons to deviate—not least of which is that this structure has become so ubiquitous.

Still, it’s helpful to master the rules before deciding when and how to break them. The 12 steps of the Hero's Journey are as follows :

• The Ordinary World
• The Call of Adventure
• Refusal of the Call
• Meeting the Mentor
• Crossing the First Threshold
• Tests, Allies, and Enemies
• Approach to the Inmost Cave
• Reward (Seizing the Sword)
• The Road Back
• Resurrection
• Return with the Elixir

Let’s take a look at each stage in more detail. To show you how the Hero’s Journey works in practice, we’ll also consider an example from the movie The Matrix (1999). After all, what blog has not been improved by a little Keanu Reeves?

#1: The Ordinary World

This is where we meet our hero, although the journey has not yet begun: first, we need to establish the status quo by showing the hero living their ordinary, mundane life.

It’s important to lay the groundwork in this opening stage, before the journey begins. It lets readers identify with the hero as just a regular person, “normal” like the rest of us. Yes, there may be a big problem somewhere out there, but the hero at this stage has very limited awareness of it.

The Ordinary World in The Matrix :

We are introduced to Thomas A. Anderson, aka Neo, programmer by day, hacker by night. While Neo runs a side operation selling illicit software, Thomas Anderson lives the most mundane life imaginable: he works at his cubicle, pays his taxes, and helps the landlady carry out her garbage.

#2: The Call to Adventure

The journey proper begins with a call to adventure—something that disrupts the hero’s ordinary life and confronts them with a problem or challenge they can’t ignore. This can take many different forms.

While readers may already understand the stakes, the hero is realizing them for the first time. They must make a choice: will they shrink from the call, or rise to the challenge?

The Call to Adventure in The Matrix :

A mysterious message arrives in Neo’s computer, warning him that things are not as they seem. He is urged to “follow the white rabbit.” At a nightclub, he meets Trinity, who tells him to seek Morpheus.

#3: Refusal of the Call

Oops! The hero chooses option A and attempts to refuse the call to adventure. This could be for any number of reasons: fear, disbelief, a sense of inadequacy, or plain unwillingness to make the sacrifices that are required.

A little reluctance here is understandable. If you were asked to trade the comforts of home for a life-and-death journey fraught with peril, wouldn’t you give pause?

Refusal of the Call in The Matrix :

Agents arrive at Neo’s office to arrest him. Morpheus urges Neo to escape by climbing out a skyscraper window. “I can’t do this… This is crazy!” Neo protests as he backs off the ledge.

#4: Meeting the Mentor

Okay, so the hero got cold feet. Nothing a little pep talk can’t fix! The mentor figure appears at this point to give the hero some much needed counsel, coaching, and perhaps a kick out the door.

After all, the hero is very inexperienced at this point. They’re going to need help to avoid disaster or, worse, death. The mentor’s role is to overcome the hero’s reluctance and prepare them for what lies ahead.

Meeting the Mentor in The Matrix :

Neo meets with Morpheus, who reveals a terrifying truth: that the ordinary world as we know it is a computer simulation designed to enslave humanity to machines.

#5: Crossing the First Threshold

At this juncture, the hero is ready to leave their ordinary world for the first time. With the mentor’s help, they are committed to the journey and ready to step across the threshold into the special world . This marks the end of the departure act and the beginning of the adventure in earnest.

This may seem inevitable, but for the hero it represents an important choice. Once the threshold is crossed, there’s no going back. Bilbo Baggins put it nicely: “It’s a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you might be swept off to.”

Crossing the First Threshold in The Matrix :

Neo is offered a stark choice: take the blue pill and return to his ordinary life none the wiser, or take the red pill and “see how deep the rabbit hole goes.” Neo takes the red pill and is extracted from the Matrix, entering the real world .

#6: Tests, Allies, and Enemies

Now we are getting into the meat of the adventure. The hero steps into the special world and must learn the new rules of an unfamiliar setting while navigating trials, tribulations, and tests of will. New characters are often introduced here, and the hero must navigate their relationships with them. Will they be friend, foe, or something in between?

Broadly speaking, this is a time of experimentation and growth. It is also one of the longest stages of the journey, as the hero learns the lay of the land and defines their relationship to other characters.

Wondering how to create captivating characters? Read our guide , which explains how to shape characters that readers will love—or hate.

Tests, Allies, and Enemies in The Matrix :

Neo is introduced to the vagabond crew of the Nebuchadnezzar . Morpheus informs Neo that he is The One , a savior destined to liberate humanity. He learns jiu jitsu and other useful skills.

#7: Approach to the Inmost Cave

Time to get a little metaphorical. The inmost cave isn’t a physical cave, but rather a place of great danger—indeed, the most dangerous place in the special world . It could be a villain’s lair, an impending battle, or even a mental barrier. No spelunking required.

Broadly speaking, the approach is marked by a setback in the quest. It becomes a lesson in persistence, where the hero must reckon with failure, change their mindset, or try new ideas.

Note that the hero hasn’t entered the cave just yet. This stage is about the approach itself, which the hero must navigate to get closer to their ultimate goal. The stakes are rising, and failure is no longer an option.

Approach to the Inmost Cave in The Matrix :

Neo pays a visit to The Oracle. She challenges Neo to “know thyself”—does he believe, deep down, that he is The One ? Or does he fear that he is “just another guy”? She warns him that the fate of humanity hangs in the balance.

#8: The Ordeal

The ordeal marks the hero’s greatest test thus far. This is a dark time for them: indeed, Campbell refers to it as the “belly of the whale.” The hero experiences a major hurdle or obstacle, which causes them to hit rock bottom.

This is a pivotal moment in the story, the main event of the second act. It is time for the hero to come face to face with their greatest fear. It will take all their skills to survive this life-or-death crisis. Should they succeed, they will emerge from the ordeal transformed.

Keep in mind: the story isn’t over yet! Rather, the ordeal is the moment when the protagonist overcomes their weaknesses and truly steps into the title of hero .

The Ordeal in The Matrix :

When Cipher betrays the crew to the agents, Morpheus sacrifices himself to protect Neo. In turn, Neo makes his own choice: to risk his life in a daring rescue attempt.

#9: Reward (Seizing the Sword)

The ordeal was a major level-up moment for the hero. Now that it's been overcome, the hero can reap the reward of success. This reward could be an object, a skill, or knowledge—whatever it is that the hero has been struggling toward. At last, the sword is within their grasp.

From this moment on, the hero is a changed person. They are now equipped for the final conflict, even if they don’t fully realize it yet.

Reward (Seizing the Sword) in The Matrix :

Neo’s reward is helpfully narrated by Morpheus during the rescue effort: “He is beginning to believe.” Neo has gained confidence that he can fight the machines, and he won’t back down from his destiny.

#10: The Road Back

We’re now at the beginning of act three, the return . With the reward in hand, it’s time to exit the inmost cave and head home. But the story isn’t over yet.

In this stage, the hero reckons with the consequences of act two. The ordeal was a success, but things have changed now. Perhaps the dragon, robbed of his treasure, sets off for revenge. Perhaps there are more enemies to fight. Whatever the obstacle, the hero must face them before their journey is complete.

The Road Back in The Matrix :

The rescue of Morpheus has enraged Agent Smith, who intercepts Neo before he can return to the Nebuchadnezzar . The two foes battle in a subway station, where Neo’s skills are pushed to their limit.

#11: Resurrection

Now comes the true climax of the story. This is the hero’s final test, when everything is at stake: the battle for the soul of Gotham, the final chance for evil to triumph. The hero is also at the peak of their powers. A happy ending is within sight, should they succeed.

Vogler calls the resurrection stage the hero’s “final exam.” They must draw on everything they have learned and prove again that they have really internalized the lessons of the ordeal . Near-death escapes are not uncommon here, or even literal deaths and resurrections.

Resurrection in The Matrix :

Despite fighting valiantly, Neo is defeated by Agent Smith and killed. But with Trinity’s help, he is resurrected, activating his full powers as The One . Isn’t it wonderful how literal The Matrix can be?

#12: Return with the Elixir

Hooray! Evil has been defeated and the hero is transformed. It’s time for the protagonist to return home in triumph, and share their hard-won prize with the ordinary world . This prize is the elixir —the object, skill, or insight that was the hero’s true reward for their journey and transformation.

Return with the Elixir in The Matrix :

Neo has defeated the agents and embraced his destiny. He returns to the simulated world of the Matrix, this time armed with god-like powers and a resolve to open humanity’s eyes to the truth.

If you’re writing your own adventure, you may be wondering: should I follow the Hero’s Journey structure?

The good news is, it’s totally up to you. Joseph Campbell conceived of the monomyth as a way to understand universal story structure, but there are many ways to outline a novel. Feel free to play around within its confines, adapt it across different media, and disrupt reader expectations. It’s like Morpheus says: “Some of these rules can be bent. Others can be broken.”

Think of the Hero’s Journey as a tool. If you’re not sure where your story should go next, it can help to refer back to the basics. From there, you’re free to choose your own adventure.

Are you prepared to write your novel? Download this free book now:

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So you are ready to write your novel. excellent. but are you prepared the last thing you want when you sit down to write your first draft is to lose momentum., this guide helps you work out your narrative arc, plan out your key plot points, flesh out your characters, and begin to build your world..

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The Beginner's Guide to Writing an Essay | Steps & Examples

An academic essay is a focused piece of writing that develops an idea or argument using evidence, analysis, and interpretation.

There are many types of essays you might write as a student. The content and length of an essay depends on your level, subject of study, and course requirements. However, most essays at university level are argumentative — they aim to persuade the reader of a particular position or perspective on a topic.

The essay writing process consists of three main stages:

• Preparation: Decide on your topic, do your research, and create an essay outline.
• Writing : Set out your argument in the introduction, develop it with evidence in the main body, and wrap it up with a conclusion.
• Revision:  Check your essay on the content, organization, grammar, spelling, and formatting of your essay.

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Table of contents

Essay writing process, preparation for writing an essay, writing the introduction, writing the main body, writing the conclusion, essay checklist, lecture slides, frequently asked questions about writing an essay.

The writing process of preparation, writing, and revisions applies to every essay or paper, but the time and effort spent on each stage depends on the type of essay .

For example, if you’ve been assigned a five-paragraph expository essay for a high school class, you’ll probably spend the most time on the writing stage; for a college-level argumentative essay , on the other hand, you’ll need to spend more time researching your topic and developing an original argument before you start writing.

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Before you start writing, you should make sure you have a clear idea of what you want to say and how you’re going to say it. There are a few key steps you can follow to make sure you’re prepared:

• Understand your assignment: What is the goal of this essay? What is the length and deadline of the assignment? Is there anything you need to clarify with your teacher or professor?
• Define a topic: If you’re allowed to choose your own topic , try to pick something that you already know a bit about and that will hold your interest.
• Do your research: Read  primary and secondary sources and take notes to help you work out your position and angle on the topic. You’ll use these as evidence for your points.
• Come up with a thesis:  The thesis is the central point or argument that you want to make. A clear thesis is essential for a focused essay—you should keep referring back to it as you write.
• Create an outline: Map out the rough structure of your essay in an outline . This makes it easier to start writing and keeps you on track as you go.

Once you’ve got a clear idea of what you want to discuss, in what order, and what evidence you’ll use, you’re ready to start writing.

The introduction sets the tone for your essay. It should grab the reader’s interest and inform them of what to expect. The introduction generally comprises 10–20% of the text.

1. Hook your reader

The first sentence of the introduction should pique your reader’s interest and curiosity. This sentence is sometimes called the hook. It might be an intriguing question, a surprising fact, or a bold statement emphasizing the relevance of the topic.

Let’s say we’re writing an essay about the development of Braille (the raised-dot reading and writing system used by visually impaired people). Our hook can make a strong statement about the topic:

The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability.

2. Provide background on your topic

Next, it’s important to give context that will help your reader understand your argument. This might involve providing background information, giving an overview of important academic work or debates on the topic, and explaining difficult terms. Don’t provide too much detail in the introduction—you can elaborate in the body of your essay.

3. Present the thesis statement

Next, you should formulate your thesis statement— the central argument you’re going to make. The thesis statement provides focus and signals your position on the topic. It is usually one or two sentences long. The thesis statement for our essay on Braille could look like this:

As the first writing system designed for blind people’s needs, Braille was a groundbreaking new accessibility tool. It not only provided practical benefits, but also helped change the cultural status of blindness.

4. Map the structure

In longer essays, you can end the introduction by briefly describing what will be covered in each part of the essay. This guides the reader through your structure and gives a preview of how your argument will develop.

The invention of Braille marked a major turning point in the history of disability. The writing system of raised dots used by blind and visually impaired people was developed by Louis Braille in nineteenth-century France. In a society that did not value disabled people in general, blindness was particularly stigmatized, and lack of access to reading and writing was a significant barrier to social participation. The idea of tactile reading was not entirely new, but existing methods based on sighted systems were difficult to learn and use. As the first writing system designed for blind people’s needs, Braille was a groundbreaking new accessibility tool. It not only provided practical benefits, but also helped change the cultural status of blindness. This essay begins by discussing the situation of blind people in nineteenth-century Europe. It then describes the invention of Braille and the gradual process of its acceptance within blind education. Subsequently, it explores the wide-ranging effects of this invention on blind people’s social and cultural lives.

Write your essay introduction

The body of your essay is where you make arguments supporting your thesis, provide evidence, and develop your ideas. Its purpose is to present, interpret, and analyze the information and sources you have gathered to support your argument.

Length of the body text

The length of the body depends on the type of essay. On average, the body comprises 60–80% of your essay. For a high school essay, this could be just three paragraphs, but for a graduate school essay of 6,000 words, the body could take up 8–10 pages.

Paragraph structure

To give your essay a clear structure , it is important to organize it into paragraphs . Each paragraph should be centered around one main point or idea.

That idea is introduced in a  topic sentence . The topic sentence should generally lead on from the previous paragraph and introduce the point to be made in this paragraph. Transition words can be used to create clear connections between sentences.

After the topic sentence, present evidence such as data, examples, or quotes from relevant sources. Be sure to interpret and explain the evidence, and show how it helps develop your overall argument.

Lack of access to reading and writing put blind people at a serious disadvantage in nineteenth-century society. Text was one of the primary methods through which people engaged with culture, communicated with others, and accessed information; without a well-developed reading system that did not rely on sight, blind people were excluded from social participation (Weygand, 2009). While disabled people in general suffered from discrimination, blindness was widely viewed as the worst disability, and it was commonly believed that blind people were incapable of pursuing a profession or improving themselves through culture (Weygand, 2009). This demonstrates the importance of reading and writing to social status at the time: without access to text, it was considered impossible to fully participate in society. Blind people were excluded from the sighted world, but also entirely dependent on sighted people for information and education.

See the full essay example

The conclusion is the final paragraph of an essay. It should generally take up no more than 10–15% of the text . A strong essay conclusion :

• Returns to your thesis
• Ties together your main points
• Shows why your argument matters

A great conclusion should finish with a memorable or impactful sentence that leaves the reader with a strong final impression.

What not to include in a conclusion

To make your essay’s conclusion as strong as possible, there are a few things you should avoid. The most common mistakes are:

• Including new arguments or evidence
• Undermining your arguments (e.g. “This is just one approach of many”)
• Using concluding phrases like “To sum up…” or “In conclusion…”

Braille paved the way for dramatic cultural changes in the way blind people were treated and the opportunities available to them. Louis Braille’s innovation was to reimagine existing reading systems from a blind perspective, and the success of this invention required sighted teachers to adapt to their students’ reality instead of the other way around. In this sense, Braille helped drive broader social changes in the status of blindness. New accessibility tools provide practical advantages to those who need them, but they can also change the perspectives and attitudes of those who do not.

Write your essay conclusion

Checklist: Essay

My essay follows the requirements of the assignment (topic and length ).

My introduction sparks the reader’s interest and provides any necessary background information on the topic.

My introduction contains a thesis statement that states the focus and position of the essay.

I use paragraphs to structure the essay.

I use topic sentences to introduce each paragraph.

Each paragraph has a single focus and a clear connection to the thesis statement.

I make clear transitions between paragraphs and ideas.

My conclusion doesn’t just repeat my points, but draws connections between arguments.

I don’t introduce new arguments or evidence in the conclusion.

I have given an in-text citation for every quote or piece of information I got from another source.

I have included a reference page at the end of my essay, listing full details of all my sources.

My citations and references are correctly formatted according to the required citation style .

My essay has an interesting and informative title.

I have followed all formatting guidelines (e.g. font, page numbers, line spacing).

Your essay meets all the most important requirements. Our editors can give it a final check to help you submit with confidence.

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An essay is a focused piece of writing that explains, argues, describes, or narrates.

In high school, you may have to write many different types of essays to develop your writing skills.

Academic essays at college level are usually argumentative : you develop a clear thesis about your topic and make a case for your position using evidence, analysis and interpretation.

The structure of an essay is divided into an introduction that presents your topic and thesis statement , a body containing your in-depth analysis and arguments, and a conclusion wrapping up your ideas.

The structure of the body is flexible, but you should always spend some time thinking about how you can organize your essay to best serve your ideas.

Your essay introduction should include three main things, in this order:

• An opening hook to catch the reader’s attention.
• Relevant background information that the reader needs to know.
• A thesis statement that presents your main point or argument.

The length of each part depends on the length and complexity of your essay .

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

• It gives your writing direction and focus.
• It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

A topic sentence is a sentence that expresses the main point of a paragraph . Everything else in the paragraph should relate to the topic sentence.

At college level, you must properly cite your sources in all essays , research papers , and other academic texts (except exams and in-class exercises).

Add a citation whenever you quote , paraphrase , or summarize information or ideas from a source. You should also give full source details in a bibliography or reference list at the end of your text.

The exact format of your citations depends on which citation style you are instructed to use. The most common styles are APA , MLA , and Chicago .

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Home — Essay Samples — Psychology — Adolescence — Personal Narrative Essay: My Experience In My Life

Personal Narrative Essay: My Experience in My Life

• Categories: Adolescence

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Words: 620 |

Published: Mar 13, 2024

Words: 620 | Page: 1 | 4 min read

Table of contents

Early childhood, adolescence, young adulthood.

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I once dissed Journey in a concert review. Man, was I wrong

I n August 2006, I was working as an arts writer for a newspaper when my editor sent me to review a Journey/Def Leppard concert at an outdoor amphitheater in suburban Salt Lake City. Thanks to the internet, I recently dug up my review.

“If this had been a battle of the bands, the British pop-glam-metal rockers would have blown Journey off the stage,” I wrote, calling Journey “a guilty-pleasure nostalgia act.” In five years, I predicted, “we may see these guys playing the state fair.”

Almost 18 years later, Journey is one of the most beloved classic rock acts in the world. The band is currently wrapping up a triumphant 50th anniversary tour, then playing some dates in Europe before returning to the US for a series of summer stadium shows with … Def Leppard. They may be more popular than ever.

So much for my instincts as a music critic.

My reasoning back then was defensible. The San Francisco band, which formed in the ‘70s, hadn’t had a top-10 hit in more than 20 years and was struggling to find a true frontman after the departure of lead singer Steve Perry, known for his luminous voice.

But my timing was terrible. I was so wrong. And it’s all because of David Chase , some TV executives and one enduring song.

Journey’s surprising second act

Ten months later, in June 2007, millions of viewers were glued to the series finale of “The Sopranos” when Tony Soprano dropped some coins into a restaurant booth jukebox and dialed up Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’.” The song played out, almost in its entirety, for four tense minutes as Carmela and Anthony Jr. walked in, Meadow did some shaky parallel parking, Tony glanced repeatedly at the door and everyone waited for something bad to happen.

With its abrupt, cut-to-black ending, the episode had viewers talking for weeks and catapulted “Don’t Stop Believin,’” which came out in 1981, back up the digital sales charts. The song got another big boost two years later when it was featured in the pilot for Fox’s “Glee” and then six more times over the course of the series — bringing it, and Journey, to a new generation of listeners.

The song was already part of the culture. It had been featured in other TV shows, and the Chicago White Sox adopted it during their triumphant 2005 World Series run. But “The Sopranos” and “Glee” took it to a new level. By the end of 2009, it was the top-selling song of the 20th century.

And just like that, Journey was hot again.

For such a massive hit, “Don’t Stop Believin’” is sort of a curious tune. The chorus doesn’t come ‘til near the end, after all the verses AND the guitar solo. You can’t really dance to it. It starts out as a story about a small-town girl and a city boy meeting on a train, then dissolves into impressionistic vagueness (“streetlights,” “people”). And there is no such place as “south Detroit,” unless you count Canada.

But the song has undeniable magic as an inspirational anthem. Yes, I can journey to the big city on a train and fall in love! Yes, I can become a glee club star! Yes, I can enjoy dinner with my Mafia family in a Jersey restaurant surrounded by potential enemies and survive (maybe)!

Jonathan Cain, Journey’s keyboard player and the song’s co-writer, has said its can-do title came from words of encouragement his father gave him when he was a broke musician in Los Angeles in the 1970s.

“I was starving before I hit Journey,” Cain told CBS News . “And I was borrowing money from my father, who wouldn’t let me come back to Chicago. He said, ‘You stay there. Something good is gonna happen. Don’t stop believing.’ And he would always say that to me. ‘Don’t stop believing, Jon.’”

Over the past 15 years “Don’t Stop Believin’” has become a karaoke staple and a sing-along favorite. I’ve seen people in piano bars, at weddings and at bachelorette parties belting it out (“hold on to that feeeeeeeeeeeling!”) while thrusting their arms theatrically toward the sky. I may have been one of those people myself.

The song has even become associated with healing. In 2020, in the early weeks of the pandemic, a New York City hospital played “Don’t Stop Believin’” every time it discharged a recovered Covid-19 patient.

What I wrote in that review wasn’t fair

Is “Don’t Stop Believin’” a good song? By now, that’s almost beside the point. It’s become one of those cultural behemoths that transcends genres and decades and generations. Teens know it. Grandparents know it.

And yes, it’s been thoroughly overplayed. I’m a little sick of it, to be honest.

But on that August night in 2006 — before it became a THING — it felt just like another catchy song in Journey’s setlist. I don’t remember anything special about Journey’s show except that they were followed by Def Leppard, who brought a new level of noise and energy. For pure, visceral headbanging, it’s hard to compete with “Pour Some Sugar On Me.”

And that’s pretty much what I wrote in my review for The Salt Lake Tribune, plus a line about how Journey’s tunes were “marred by overblown arrangements and a sense that the band — what’s left of it — is clinging to fading glories.”

I think it’s important for journalists to admit their mistakes. Whatever you may think of Journey’s music, the band’s glories are still on display. In 2017, Journey was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

As a critic, I evaluated the bands’ performances that summer night as I saw them. I still stand by that assessment. But it wasn’t fair to assume that I knew what lay ahead for Journey. Life throws curve balls. And we all deserve a chance at a second or a third act.

After that 2006 tour, Journey replaced their frontman with an unknown singer they found doing rock covers on YouTube. His name is Arnel Pineda , he grew up in the Philippines and he was once homeless. When Journey reached out to him, he thought it was a prank . Now he’s a rock star, with a soaring high tenor that evokes Perry’s from back in the day.

It’s a great story. Twists of fate can change the trajectory of a song, a rock band, a life.

Four decades after their heyday, Journey still plays to packed arenas around the world. Their songs remain radio staples. Forbes recently named “Don’t Stop Believin’” the biggest pop song of all time.

That kind of achievement and staying power deserve my congratulations and respect — even if it’s 18 years too late.

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Essay on My Favourite Journey

Students are often asked to write an essay on My Favourite Journey in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on My Favourite Journey

Introduction.

My favourite journey was a family trip to the Grand Canyon. It was a blend of excitement, learning, and unforgettable experiences.

The Journey

We drove from our home in California. The journey was filled with laughter, games, and roadside picnics. The changing landscapes kept us fascinated.

The Destination

Reaching the Grand Canyon was breathtaking. Its vastness, colours, and history left us in awe. We explored trails, enjoyed the sunset, and learned about the canyon’s geology.

This journey brought us closer as a family and left us with beautiful memories. It remains my favourite journey, filled with joy and discovery.

250 Words Essay on My Favourite Journey

Every journey leaves an indelible imprint on the canvas of our lives, but some journeys are more memorable than others. My favourite journey is not defined by the destination, but by the experiences it offered, the people I met, and the insights I gained about myself and the world around me.

The Journey to Self-Discovery

My favourite journey was a solo backpacking trip to the Himalayas. It was not just about the physical travel, but also a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. The Himalayas, with their majestic peaks and serene valleys, provided the perfect backdrop for introspection.

Challenges and Triumphs

This journey was fraught with challenges; from navigating treacherous terrains to facing unpredictable weather. However, these obstacles only amplified the sense of achievement when I overcame them. They taught me resilience and the ability to adapt, skills that are invaluable in life.

People and Connections

The journey also brought me in contact with diverse cultures and people. The locals, with their simple lives and profound wisdom, left a lasting impact. It was a reminder of the universality of human experiences and emotions, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.

The beauty of my favourite journey lies not in the physical distance covered, but in the emotional and intellectual growth it fostered. It was a journey that altered my perspective, broadened my horizons, and deepened my understanding of life. In the end, it was not just a journey to the Himalayas, but a journey to the core of my being.

500 Words Essay on My Favourite Journey

Life is a journey filled with unforgettable moments and cherished experiences. Among the many journeys I have undertaken, one stands out as my favourite: a trip to the majestic Himalayas. This journey was not just a physical voyage, but also a spiritual and emotional odyssey that reshaped my perspective on life and nature.

The Call of the Mountains

The Himalayas, with their towering peaks and serene valleys, have always held an irresistible allure for me. The idea of exploring these untouched landscapes, where nature unfolds in its purest form, was a long-cherished dream. The opportunity finally arrived during my second year of college, when I joined a mountaineering expedition.

The Journey Begins

The journey commenced from Delhi, with a group of 15 enthusiastic individuals. As we ventured into the mountains, we were greeted by a symphony of sights and sounds that were a stark contrast to the city’s hustle and bustle. The verdant valleys, the gurgling streams, and the tranquil silence were a balm to our city-weary souls.

The journey was not devoid of challenges. The rugged terrains, the unpredictable weather, and the physical exertion tested our endurance. However, these obstacles only intensified the thrill of the journey. Each successful climb, each conquered peak, and each shared meal by the campfire fostered a sense of camaraderie and resilience in us. We learned the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and respect for nature.

The Transformative Experience

The most profound part of the journey was witnessing the sunrise from the summit. As the first rays of the sun pierced the morning mist, the world below awakened in a riot of colours. This ethereal spectacle was a powerful reminder of nature’s grandeur and our insignificant place within it. It was a humbling and transformative experience that instilled in me a deep sense of gratitude and reverence for life.

In retrospect, my journey to the Himalayas was more than a mere trip. It was an enlightening experience that broadened my horizons and deepened my understanding of life. It taught me to embrace challenges, cherish the beauty of nature, and appreciate the simple joys of life. This journey remains etched in my memory, not just for the breathtaking landscapes but for the invaluable lessons it imparted. It is, without a doubt, my favourite journey.

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Guest Essay

When I Became a Birder, Almost Everything Else Fell Into Place

Mr. Yong is a science writer whose most recent book, “An Immense World,” investigates animal perception.

Last September, I drove to a protected wetland near my home in Oakland, Calif., walked to the end of a pier and started looking at birds. Throughout the summer, I was breaking in my first pair of binoculars, a Sibley field guide and the Merlin song-identification app, but always while hiking or walking the dog. On that pier, for the first time, I had gone somewhere solely to watch birds.

In some birding circles, people say that anyone who looks at birds is a birder — a kind, inclusive sentiment that overlooks the forces that create and shape subcultures. Anyone can dance, but not everyone would identify as a dancer, because the term suggests, if not skill, then at least effort and intent. Similarly, I’ve cared about birds and other animals for my entire life, and I’ve written about them throughout my two decades as a science writer, but I mark the moment when I specifically chose to devote time and energy to them as the moment I became a birder.

Since then, my birder derangement syndrome has progressed at an alarming pace. Seven months ago, I was still seeing very common birds for the first time. Since then, I’ve seen 452 species, including 337 in the United States, and 307 this year alone. I can reliably identify a few dozen species by ear. I can tell apart greater and lesser yellowlegs, house and purple finches, Cooper’s and sharp-shinned hawks. (Don’t talk to me about gulls; I’m working on the gulls.) I keep abreast of eBird’s rare bird alerts and have spent many days — some glorious, others frustrating — looking for said rare birds. I know what it means to dip, to twitch, to pish . I’ve gone owling.

I didn’t start from scratch. A career spent writing about nature gave me enough avian biology and taxonomy to roughly know the habitats and silhouettes of the major groups. Journalism taught me how to familiarize myself with unfamiliar territory very quickly. I crowdsourced tips on the social media platform Bluesky . I went out with experienced birders to learn how they move through a landscape and what cues they attend to.

I studied up on birds that are famously difficult to identify so that when I first saw them in the field, I had an inkling of what they were without having to check a field guide. I used the many tools now available to novices: EBird shows where other birders go and reveals how different species navigate space and time; Merlin is best known as an identification app but is secretly an incredible encyclopedia; Birding Quiz lets you practice identifying species based on fleeting glances at bad angles.

This all sounds rather extra, and birding is often defined by its excesses. At its worst, it becomes an empty process of collection that turns living things into abstract numbers on meaningless lists. But even that style of birding is harder without knowledge. To find the birds, you have to know them. And in the process of knowing them, much else falls into place.

Birding has tripled the time I spend outdoors. It has pushed me to explore Oakland in ways I never would have: Amazing hot spots lurk within industrial areas, sewage treatment plants and random residential parks. It has proved more meditative than meditation. While birding, I seem impervious to heat, cold, hunger and thirst. My senses focus resolutely on the present, and the usual hubbub in my head becomes quiet. When I spot a species for the first time — a lifer — I course with adrenaline while being utterly serene.

I also feel a much deeper connection to the natural world, which I have long written about but always remained slightly distant from. I knew that the loggerhead shrike — a small but ferocious songbird — impales the bodies of its prey on spikes. I’ve now seen one doing that with my own eyes. I know where to find the shrikes and what they sound like. Countless fragments of unrooted trivia that rattled around my brain are now grounded in place, time and experience.

When I step out my door in the morning, I take an aural census of the neighborhood, tuning in to the chatter of creatures that were always there and that I might have previously overlooked. The passing of the seasons feels more granular, marked by the arrival and disappearance of particular species instead of much slower changes in day length, temperature and greenery. I find myself noticing small shifts in the weather and small differences in habitat. I think about the tides.

So much more of the natural world feels close and accessible now. When I started birding, I remember thinking that I’d never see most of the species in my field guide. Sure, backyard birds like robins and western bluebirds would be easy, but not black skimmers or peregrine falcons or loggerhead shrikes. I had internalized the idea of nature as distant and remote — the province of nature documentaries and far-flung vacations. But in the past six months, I’ve seen soaring golden eagles, heard duetting great horned owls, watched dancing sandhill cranes and marveled at diving Pacific loons, all within an hour of my house. “I’ll never see that” has turned into “Where can I find that?”

Of course, having the time to bird is an immense privilege. As a freelancer, I have total control over my hours and my ability to get out in the field. “Are you a retiree?” a fellow birder recently asked me. “You’re birding like a retiree.” I laughed, but the comment spoke to the idea that things like birding are what you do when you’re not working, not being productive.

I reject that. These recent years have taught me that I’m less when I’m not actively looking after myself, that I have value to my world and my community beyond ceaseless production and that pursuits like birding that foster joy, wonder and connection to place are not sidebars to a fulfilled life but their essence.

It’s easy to think of birding as an escape from reality. Instead, I see it as immersion in the true reality. I don’t need to know who the main characters are on social media and what everyone is saying about them, when I can instead spend an hour trying to find a rare sparrow. It’s very clear to me which of those two activities is the more ridiculous. It’s not the one with the sparrow.

More of those sparrows are imminent. I’m about to witness my first spring migration as warblers and other delights pass through the Bay Area. Birds I’ve seen only in drab grays are about to don their spectacular breeding plumages. Familiar species are about to burst out in new tunes that I’ll have to learn. I have my first lazuli bunting to see, my first blue grosbeak to find, my first least terns to photograph. I can’t wait.

Ed Yong is a science writer whose most recent book, “An Immense World,” investigates animal perception.

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