Kate Character Analysis in Tracks: A Woman’s Solo Trek Across 1700 Miles of Australian Outback

Kate is an older female camel whom Davidson acquires from Sallay Mahomet. She has been abused previously and hates humans, though Davidson adores her and plans to use her to carry supplies during the trip, since she can’t be ridden. Kate develops an infection before Davidson acquires her, which eventually proves to be fatal. Davidson has to shoot Kate when it becomes clear she won't live, which is a devastating setback for the trek.

Kate Character Timeline in Tracks: A Woman’s Solo Trek Across 1700 Miles of Australian Outback

The timeline below shows where the character Kate appears in Tracks: A Woman’s Solo Trek Across 1700 Miles of Australian Outback. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.

...Sallay Mahomet and is given two camels in return. She chooses an older female named Kate and a younger female named Zeleika. At the same time, her friends at Basso’s farm... (full context)

...she distracts herself by continuing to care for her camels. Zeleika is too thin, while Kate is traumatized from her abusive past and hates humans. Kate also has a serious infection... (full context)

Individuality and Interconnection Theme Icon

Kate’s condition continues to worsen, and Davidson spends several months devoted mostly to caring for her... (full context)

...Zeleika will never wander away from it. At the same time, it becomes clear that Kate has blood poisoning and will not be able to recover. With support from her friend... (full context)

While continuing to feel depressed over Kate’s death, Davidson also becomes more and more afraid of Kurt, who grows increasingly erratic. She... (full context)