Since Crusoe's story also doubles as his spiritual autobiography, he frequently reflects on his life as a sinner. After his conversion, he often engages in various religious observations.
John Muir lived up to his doctrine by not being the first man to reach the camp. He was no simple hiker. He would stop many times during his way up to examine trees, flowers, animals, nature, and everything that surrounded him. This means he didn't rush through life, he enjoyed every part of it.
The figurative language is simile
