DeVoto possessed a keen understanding of broader issues, which he shared with Stegner. Both writers displayed a penchant for provocation and held a disdain for conventional norms, often confronting traditional viewpoints with boldness. Stegner likened DeVoto to the "Lone Ranger," envisioning him as a solitary figure in the mid-20th century, valiantly defending against a wave of developers and politicians eager to exploit the land. Their collaboration in protecting the West was significant, yet it was Abbey's arrival that infused the struggle with a more defiant and combative edge.

While Stegner and DeVoto collaborated in their literary and environmental efforts, Abbey's unique spirit injected a new level of passion into the cause. DeVoto’s combative stance was critical in the fight against those who sought to reclaim land for development, embodying a protective role for the natural environment. Abbey, with his more fiery approach, brought a level of antagonism that resonated deeply, challenging established norms and energizing the movement in ways that previous efforts had not. Together, they represented a powerful force in the ongoing struggle for the preservation of the American West.