I recently came across a fascinating tale about a remarkably sturdy leather rucksack with a rich history. In filmmaker Werner Herzog’s memoir, he recalls receiving this bag from travel writer Bruce Chatwin, who passed away from AIDS-related complications in 1989. Chatwin had originally described himself to Herzog as “*tall and blond and look like a schoolboy*” carrying a leather rucksack. Despite Chatwin’s demise, Herzog continues to use the bag regularly, valuing it above all his possessions. The rucksack, crafted by a saddler in Cirencester, had already traveled thousands of miles with Chatwin before becoming Herzog’s cherished possession.
The significance of this bag is not merely sentimental; it played a crucial role in Herzog’s own survival during a perilous mountain ordeal. In the film *Scream of Stone*, inspired by Chatwin’s rucksack, Herzog depicts a harrowing experience where he and his companions faced near-death circumstances in freezing mountains. With minimal supplies and harsh conditions, Herzog, using Chatwin’s empty rucksack, huddled in a makeshift shelter to endure the freezing temperatures. While some claim the rucksack saved his life, Herzog acknowledges that it was the collective body warmth that kept them alive.
Herzog’s connection to the rucksack runs deep, leading him to dedicate a documentary, *Nomad: In the Footsteps of Bruce Chatwin*, to Chatwin’s memory and the significance of the rugged bag. Through this film, Herzog shares his experiences with the rucksack and the poignant story of how Chatwin entrusted it to him before his passing. This bag, though heavy and not particularly modern, symbolizes resilience and endurance, making it a tangible link to the adventurous spirit of Chatwin and Herzog.
In conclusion, the leather rucksack embodies more than just a functional item; it represents a lasting bond between two extraordinary individuals and their shared experiences of survival and exploration. The bag’s enduring legacy serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of adventure and the profound connections that can be forged through shared hardships and cherished possessions. This story serves as a reminder of the power of objects to transcend their material value and carry profound emotional significance.