The author attempts to describe life in contemporary Appalachia on the basis of his service as a minister in the mountain region of the area for thirteen years. Included is an interpretation of the individualism, traditionalism, fatalism, and personal orientation which characterize the mountaineer population of Appalachia, as well as extensive information concerning the mountaineer in relation to his own society, the rural environment of the area, the rural community, the outside world, and the church. An interpretation of how modern forces of change have affected the rural Appalachian mountaineer is also given. A synoptic characterization of the Appalachian mountaineer reveals an orientation to existence rather than progress, an adult-centered family life, a general lack of status seeking, little concern for job security, an ambivalence toward education, and fear of persons in positions of authority. (EV)