Into the Great Solitude | PBS Special Documentaries - Solo Canoe Journeys with Robert Perkins

This now classic outdoor adventure film tells the story of Robert Perkins’ seventy-two day solo canoe journey in the Canadian Arctic. Perkins not only takes on arduous physical challenges, but he lyrically describes in film and language how the journey helps him make peace with a difficult father.
Winner of many major awards, his best-known work provides a captivating look at Perkins as a young man willing to take on the challenges of the Canadian Arctic on a long solo canoe trip. Battling rapids and black flies, while dancing with his own demons and his shadow, Perkins explores what it means to survive in the stark beauty of the Canadian tundra. Perkins not only takes on arduous physical challenges, but he lyrically describes in film and language how the journey helps him find peace with his father.
For more information on Robert Perkins and his books, films, and art, visit robertfperkins.com/.
“Robert Perkins has pushed the envelope of the documentary / essay film, creating works that are both searingly honest and engagingly personable." - Phillip Lopate, New York film critic This now classic outdoor adventure film tells the story of Robert Perkins’ seventy-two day solo canoe journey in the Canadian Arctic. Perkins not only takes on arduous physical challenges, but he lyrically describes in film and language how the journey helps him make peace with a difficult father.
Winner of many major awards, his best-known work provides a captivating look at Perkins as a young man willing to take on the challenges of the Canadian Arctic on a long solo canoe trip. Battling rapids and black flies, while dancing with his own demons and his shadow, Perkins explores what it means to survive in the stark beauty of the Canadian tundra. Perkins not only takes on arduous physical challenges, but he lyrically describes in film and language how the journey helps him find peace with his father.
For more information on Robert Perkins and his books, films, and art, visit robertfperkins.com/.
“Robert Perkins has pushed the envelope of the documentary / essay film, creating works that are both searingly honest and engagingly personable." - Phillip Lopate, New York film critic

[@boatman222345]

I'm 77 years old and in poor health and no longer truly able to engage in and enjoy outdoor adventure. Thus watching this documentary was like breathing pure oxygen! My outdoor adventures began in 1969 when I took up rock climbing in New Mexico, moved on to canoeing in Massachusetts and Maine in the mid 1970s. Since then I've spent my entire life in one outdoor activity after another. I ran a sea kayaking tour company for 5 years in Maine then got my captain's license and ran a custom boat tour company for another 25 years before retiring due to Covid shutdowns. KZbin these days is chock a block full of "adventure" videos but most of them leave me cold. Too often they are about ego, self gratification, and tons and tons and tons of high tech and very expensive gear. Almost nothing is said about process, about beauty, about humbling fear overcome nervously and with little sense of victory but rather a grateful acceptance of good luck. This wonderful documentary said little about gear, almost nothing about ego and self gratification and lots and lots about the details, adversities, and challenges that can be met with a self effacing sense of courage and determination. And I was so pleased to see Robert's dad up and about and able to enjoy his son's success at trips's end. Wonderful, meaningful documentary! Thanks!

[@TheBarefootGardener1]

We are strangers in the human realm, but you are close to me. I have watched this film about four hundred times. More than I can count. I live in the suburbs of the "Hamptons' but long for the wilderness. Your film has filled me with the peace I need to go on. I have it memorized for the most part but that's not important. The important parts are the ice, the sky, the caribou, the wolf, your soft voice, your commentary about religion, about animals, about rocks, and everything else "in between". I thank you for your life, your work, your courage, your peace.

[@robertjosan]

You should checkout Richard Proenneke " One Man's Wilderness" and many other films and documentaries and books of his, if you haven't already. I too am originally from the Hamptons area and he inspired to go out to Alaska and "Live the Dream". I used to watch him hundreds of times as well until I finally got the courage to go to Alaska, even saw his remote cabin in person.

[@DSToNe19and83]

“Foolish man” Oh I’ve been there! 🍻

[@butcherknife59knife46]

WOW what a journey across a barron land scape. Glad you made it safe. This must have been filmed in the 60s.. For all of you explorers be safe in them big woods they are alive.

[@RobertPerkinsYouTube]

Thanks, John. Your words are good to read. I'm glad the film still touches you. I'll be up there next summer.... One more taste.

[@lindaclark5911]

Robert Perkins please check out Rune Malta Bertrum Neilsen on utb he is our kindred spirit.

[@erissmith845]

Watching this from the age of outlandishly priced hi-tech gear, it's reassuring to know that there once was a time you could safely venture out in the wilds wearing cotton and a pair of converse sneakers ;-p The cinematography of this film is just gorgeous and the shadow play is delightful fun. This will definitely join ranks of my other favorite paddle/adventure documentarians Bill Mason and Frank Wolf.

[@richardmitchell8503]

I watched this many years ago on Channel 4 and it inspired me to build my own canoe and go exploring. A few years ago I bought the DVD and showed it to friends who went off and got their own canoes and their own adventures. Thanks from all of us for all the inspiration.

[@billygoatfilms7531]

Living in the UK and going through a personal period of difficulty in my life, depression and a spell in a psychiatric ward, I found solace in reading outdoor adventure books. Finding your book entitled ‘Against Straight Lines’ I ordered it through Amazon. I have to say reading this book took me away from depression and my life as it was. I really felt in touch with the journey you took, the descriptive writing of the Palmer River, the waterfalls were truly uplifting. Having read many outdoor adventure type books (Colin Fletcher being one of my favourite writers), I have to say you are equally as good as him. The book I bought was second hand and I was interested to see that it was personally signed by you. You wrote: For Anne and John Bryant 6/11/83. Then there was an inscription, obviously by someone else who had received the book, her name was Rose B Woodard. This later person had made a few page numbered notes at the end where she was obviously impressed by what you had written. I’m also now re-reading your book and making my own notes along with Rose. My only criticism is that at the end we never knew if your relationship with Mandy ever continued. I’ve just ordered another of your books and can’t wait to continue reading more of your adventures. Take care and always remember to live simply. Mike.

[@canoephysics]

Thank you for your films, each is a blessing and a gift.

[@joeschenk8400]

I remember this from years ago on PBS. I enjoyed seeing this again. Thanks for the post.

[@thecount1001]

the risk and exposure on this trip, at this period of time, is hard to fathom. that he lived is incredible.

[@Chris-ue9tx]

I first saw this on PBS years ago and have thought about it frequently. So glad to find it here. What an amazing experience.

[@MrKansas69]

Excellent film, you did a great job of relating your humanity to the landscape

[@brucejordan7918]

Rob, I've read all your books, watched your videos -- thanks for selling me your last video of Into Great Solitude -- and now I'm viewing your KZbin films. I''ve done a bit of messing around the North, some of it in canoes, some in kayaks, some afoot --and hope to go to the Arctic on a canoe trip next summer -- COVID allowing. "Thank you" doesn't do early enough to express the joy you've brought me. Do I see that you're planning another trip down the Back next summer? It would be awesome to see the video if you are willing to share. Ad multos annos! Stay safe and be well.

[@jjmont61]

"One Man in a Boat" was the first time I saw your stuff, way back in the 90's. I later bought your book"Talking to Angels" and got a bit more perspective into your life. This seems to be an earlier work, though it remains the essential Rob Perkins..... and it is probably the best. You think too deep for the demographic that can endure the vapidity of talking-head network news and reality TV. It will take some time for people to come around but, like you have said "nature bat's last." Ain't gonna happen in our lifetimes, most likely, but you are one of the sparks.

[@BryanHansel]

One of the best canoeing movies ever made. So awesome to be able to watch it again. Thank you for putting this online. Your line "Life is what happens between the facts" has stuck with me for years.

[@Evan_Le5]

Amazing video and journey Robert. You’re a great inspiration!

[@evergladessurvival]

Outstanding! This is on the level of Bill Mason's great work.

[@lindamon5101]

Thanks Robert for your inspirations. My life btwn the facts closer to the land was enhanced by your perspective. Im sorry. Your toe.

[@zebragit]

Amazing films from an amazing being.

[@margaretkoppes4070]

Very much enjoyed your trip, and your insights into life experience. Thank you for sharing.

[@wolfjury7134]

I first watched your films soo many years ago on Channel 4 and they have stuck with me as my favourite films I ve ever watched. All these years later I ve been suprised at how familiar it all was to me. Thank you so much for putting them here. I spend and have spent so much of my time alone but not lonely on this small island of ours (Uk).. I work in the few remaining wild places with only nature as my company..so much of what you say is so familiar to me. Thank you and take good care friend.

[@markmatheson603]

Thanks for putting this up! A lost treasure for sure

[@Karamintheworld]

This is absolutely stunning from beginning to end. One of the best canoeing movies ever made! Thank you.

[@janeraven5911]

Wonderful to see this again after a year or two. I get different elements out of it each time I watch it. Crack on and do more. We deserve it and you've got many years in you yet.

[@LostLakes]

Brilliant!

[@johnjeremiahjohnson3900]

Thank you Rob for sharing this! Your movie has inspired me for more than 15 years. Now I can direct others to your movie in a jiffy when I am reaching my capabilities explaining of what a long solo canoe trip across the Barren Lands is alike. Sure there are (many?) others who could go solo across The True North (strong and free) - and come back in one piece. But whom of those could bring out an account like yours? And I can only accede to Bryan’s comment on the essence of life. That got stuck with me the same way. As you can see Rob - you are leaving behind one big impression in the hearts of many. Keep it up! And best of luck with your Lazulu project. If it just would not be so darn far away. C

[@zanaridg]

Superb. Just wonderful. Thank you for sharing.

[@gabrielgplacinta]

Good job. Congratulations.

[@mikegalietta8497]

What a fantastic, deep, insightful, beautiful journey. Thank you for sharing Mr. Perkins!

[@memzoporita]

Thank you Robert. Your sensitivity and creative spirit are beautiful to behold. I read "Talking to Angels" then sought out your videos. Your love of nature and your inquisitive and observant nature make your presentation captivating.

[@GrasshoppersPortal]

Great documentary, so fun to watch. What a journey! 😊 Very inspiring...

[@jeffgriffiths5945]

what an amazing accomplishment. i've been solo canoe tripping since 2015 and i love it. thanks for documenting and sharing your journey!

[@ChadHClifford]

one of my fav. nature films!! Thanks!

[@RobertPerkinsYouTube]

Thank you for your comment. Yes, I’m glad to put them up... and next year there’ll be a new book..!! Rob Check out www.lazalu.com

[@phixxxer11]

AWESOMENESS I SAW U ON PBS IN THE 90'S.

[@brucejordan7918]

Ready to buy that next book, Rob. How's it coming?

[@phixxxer11]

A true gentleman

[@jacqueline7118]

Epic adventure as well as a wonderful journey of self reflection. Glad I stumbled onto this documentary. Those pin ups were quite amusing, they were wearing a lot compared to what would be worn today. lol Thanks for sharing. :)

[@jimhanson7476]

Inspirational...

[@vittoriodimeglio8564]

I remember seeing this video in the late 80's on NYC PBS. It has stuck with me for whatever reason and I have occasionally looked for it online but could never remember the name or title. Thank you for posting it it was an enjoyable re-watch but has it been edited from it's original airing? I seem to remember an additional monologue or two.

[@RobertPerkinsYouTube]

Thank you for writing, Vitoria, I’m glad you liked the film these many years later. Nothing has been added to what you saw….. in a year look for a new book: When it’s Dark Enough You Can See The Stars.

[@10splitter]

I still have my copy of East/West magazine chronicling your first trip down the Back with Bernie Peyton. I also have your "Nature Bats Last" video. And I read Back's book... :)

[@Xhizorsization]

Robert, I will remember this for the rest of my life! Thank you so much for sharing this publicly. I have many questions but I will drop this one,. was this Loon canoe a wood-rib/FG you took way out there? or did you have them make you something custom for this trip? One day I hope to take a trip similar to this and I am sure I will reflect on this trip while on my own.

[@Mrs.Tincher]

This is incredible. Great video. Awesome journey.

[@fletchAlmighty]

Thanks Robert, very inspiring and poetic. I have done alot of day trips canoeing by myself or with friends on the River Wye in the UK and always dreamed of taking a multi day canoe trip in Canada one day. Probably not as extreme as this trip of yours! I'm currently forfilling another dream of mine but hope to make a start on some small river journeys soon. Thanks again for the inspiration

[@LAPLAND_SUPERTRAMP]

Great movies and travel you have done. Both mentaly and fycical. Awsome 👍 Do you have some more movies about some north area?

[@BrettVaughnB100]

I liked it..

[@jb1934]

so this trip was done in 1987, just a few years before the debut of the Motorola sat phone. yet this paddling film genre was only established by bill mason in 1984. what a remarkable achievement this documentary is, coming out of such a narrow time frame. if you asked any one of the prominent KZbinrs we're all familiar with today to push the envelope like that, what would the result be?

[@RobertPerkinsYouTube]

hi JB thanks for your acknowledgement. yes, it was simple. i picked a place to meet my pick up…. and be there. today’s hero’s to me are in Ukraine and the filming and sharing they are doing. Wars won’t be the same again. Zelinsky is a brave user of KZbin.

[@RobertPerkinsYouTube]

tell me more…. if you like

[@kevingray5646]

People are scared of the outdoors, often you find litter in empty places, left perhaps to defy nature and leave their mark.

[@RobertPerkinsYouTube]

yes…. when i’ve been on trips, if I find trash and can figure out who it belongs to… i mail it back to them And say….. you dropped this

[@robertperkins1332]

That is the next two Saturdays in 2021 at 1pm Mountain Standard Time

[@robertperkins1332]

The Wisdom of the Solo Canoe by Robert Perkins Two conversations on the Great Fish River & the Back River Saturday March 27 and Saturday April 3, 1pm Mountain Standard "It’s risky to travel alone, especially in a wilderness, but it’s equally risky to have dreams, and not follow them.” from his new book, When it gets Dark Enough, You can See the Stars Join this consummate storyteller for two 90 minute conversations. Over sixteen summers, Robert Perkins canoed solo north of Yellowknife on the Great Fish River…the tundra… dangerous …exotic… exciting. Saving the wild in us, and in nature, takes both science and stories from the heart. Register now and get the link in advance to see his PBS specials filmed on the Great Fish River: Into the Great Solitude and Talking to Angels. More about Robert Perkins: robertfperkins.com Register Here More about the two conversations on the Great Fish River & the Back River. “Both conversations are about different aspects of the same river..... the Great Fish River; on the map called the Back River. It’s the only northern river flowing only through tundra to the arctic ocean. It’s 560 miles long. There are no towns, and few travel there. Most canoeists paddle a different river each season, but I made the choice in 1971 to paddle the same river. As the poet Rilke says in Letters to a Young Poet, if you fear something go toward your fear, make it your friend. Initially, traveling alone was terrifying....all that water, those miles, and no one around. There were bears, rapids, my own possible mistakes....but over the years, as I canoeed the river multiple times, and its tributaries, I fell in love with the watershed and solo travel. It’s never been the same river twice. As I find the river endlessly interesting, I hope to make it come alive for you. The PBS films viewed before the conversations provide context for many who do not know me. The films raise their own questions, especially Talking to Angels.... my favorite. During the question and answer period we can go as deep as you like .... technically, or poetically. If life is what happens between the facts, there is a lot to talk about.” Praise for Robert Perkins: “Dear Rob, If I could be a symphony that would cover all the expressible and inexpressible, I'd be up to writing you the letter that I'd like to. Your work is out of this world, drawn out of this-worldness and a love of it, drawn towards a point beyond which offers a perspective. Heart-breaking, spirit-leveling, true to life. As Frost said, strongly spent is synonymous with kept. .”- Seamus Heaney, poet and Nobel Laureate