I was lucky enough to see the SALT PATH film in our old fashioned cinema recently ( not something I am known to do because it’s indoors and you have to sit still!)
The film is based on the novel by Raynor Winn who writes about her long distance walk around the South West Coast path with her Husband Moth.
I went alone for two reasons…
1. As I mention in my book, I think the SALT PATH book is something anyone who has an interest in walking as a powerful exercise tool should read and I wanted to immerse myself in the story again.
2. I had noticed that amongst my fellow walkers there is a bit of a ‘marmite’ theme as to whether they like the book or not and I got the same response when mentioning the film- something I have pondered recently and will try to articulate.
I wasn’t disappointed by the film and could see that the Author had ensured the true essence of the tale came through loud and clear! This essence is the ingredient that might have escaped a keen walker wanting to know more about the route, the paths, the kit and the pace.
The Winns did not embark on the challenge like many of my associates might and I think that’s perhaps why they and others might not have fully grasped the full power of the book.
To a seasoned walker, planning, correct kit and pre training are important and they would devour a book by a walker with those in place. They would take inspiration from descriptions of miles walked and experiences had, perhaps the toughness of climbs and wildness of the location.
It has since occurred to me that Winns descriptions of discomfort after a couple of miles and flimsy sleeping bags might not appeal to those who take walking seriously and that’s a shame because the reasons for the lack of planning and the transformation achieved as the miles unfold outline the true power of walking.
I was pleased that the subtle improvements in Moths gait and medical condition were almost not mentioned in the film but were there for those who looked closely enough as the walk progressed. So too were the smiles, moments of relaxation and lighter moments which gradually take over from sunburn, uncomfortable nights and lack of drinking water!
Although the situation this couple face (homelessness, no money and life shortening illness) are pretty extreme, the simple act of walking begins to make a difference to their physical and mental health – and it shows!
The wildness of the scenery and connection to nature, brings things into focus and they realise that being together, moving and feeling free are what matter most.
If you watch closely or read between the lines, you can see the spring appear in their steps, notice how miles pass more easily and how they notice the birds, waves and simple things. Also the effect these have on them.
Relationships with others are also changing, scornful walkers striding past to keep to tough schedules are replaced with those who show kindness without judgement.
Encounters with others people depict a range of behaviours from scorn and derision to kindness and respect. Yet look deeper at some of those interactions and it is because the couple are in tune with the struggles of others that they benefit in the long run – albeit a hot pasty! Again, the power in the tale is that no matter how low you might be, others may also need support (the young street girl who tags along and is given a much needed fiver).
How many of us would notice those in need as we stride past?
Finally as an advocate of total body walking, how can I ignore the fact that the physical improvements are a result of carrying packs, climbing hills, bending to peg down a tent and balancing on tricky terrain!
So, I was not disappointed by the film and urge anyone who may be irritated by the opening passages to read on and look deeper. Never have I encountered a story that describes so beautifully the power of being outdoors in nature, using our bodies as they were intended and of course LOVE!
It does help to read other books by Raynor Winn to understand the enormity of their situation and also the depth of characters too.
Footnote:- I am aware of recent press in relation to the Author but have made a decision to retain this blog as its the message about walking which is important.
