In "A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail," Bill Bryson reflects on the changing times by commenting on the unusual sight of park rangers carrying service revolvers. This statement highlights a growing concern about safety and the evolving role of park personnel in a world filled with uncertainties.

By expressing astonishment at such a change, Bryson captures the essence of a society that is grappling with issues of security and normalization of violence, even in serene natural settings. His observation points to a shift in how we perceive and interact with nature, suggesting that the thick, peaceful woods require a form of policing that reflects deeper societal anxieties.