Here's why it's important:
* Symbol of Rejection: McCandless cuts off the leather belt he received as a graduation present, symbolizing his rejection of societal norms and his desire to break free from his past.
* Survival Tool: The belt serves as a makeshift strap for his backpack and other necessities, highlighting his resourcefulness and ability to adapt in the wilderness.
* Irony: The belt, meant to be a symbol of achievement, becomes a practical tool for survival in his self-imposed isolation.
While the belt isn't a focal point in any specific chapter, its presence and significance are woven throughout Krakauer's narrative. It serves as a visual representation of McCandless's complex and often paradoxical journey.