The Solace of the Wild

The Solace of the Wild

One night, two young and previously unconstrained friends decide to drive out into the wilderness for one last feral adventure. All to reminisce, and to search for the bygone ardour and meaning that they have lost along their estrangement.

Through the guilt-ridden perspective of a now troubled young man named Charl, comes the story of his beloved and unconforming friend, Helgardt. A bruised prophet amongst his crowd and a beatnik attempting to exist on his own terms. Underneath the surface, hides a solitary and dejected figure.

Two years ago Charl and Helgardt were spending their time in the bushveld, around a fire with a guitar, a shotgun, and as many libations as they wanted. Now, Charl is living his life, and Helgardt is only trying to. He seems to be unable and unwilling to fulfill expectations and adapt to life after the bygone and unconstrained times now past.

After growing apart for some time, the two compatriots decide over one hedonistic night to head out into the wilderness. Helgardt convinces Charl to go pay respects to their shared hero, and to relive some form of the lost old days. Helgardt and Charl drive out to Pelindaba, where Eugene Marais commited suicide. This is their last feral adventure. This is the way Helgardt says goodbye.

The Solace of the Wild
  • The Solace of the Wild

    One night, two young and previously unconstrained friends decide to drive out into the wilderness for one last feral adventure. All to reminisce, and to search for the bygone ardour and meaning that they have lost along their estrangement.

    Through the guilt-ridden perspective of a now troubled y...