Themes and message

The main theme of the short story “To Build a Fire” by Jack London is the conflict between man and nature, in which nature triumphs. This theme is enhanced by the motifs of instinct versus reason, as the dog comes to symbolize the survival instinct, while the man illustrates how reason and pride can lead one to perdition in competition with nature. A side theme to the story is perseverance and determination, as the man fights for surviving until the last moment.

Conflict between man and nature

The relationship between man and nature can be explored in two ways; either by focusing on the harmony and connection between the two or by looking at man and nature as being in a constant fight. This short story explores the latter version. The man in the story sets out on his journey on an act of defiance of nature. Although he has been warned about the dangers of such a cold weather, the man assumes that because he has the power of reason and practical survival knowledge, he can prevail over the challenging circumstances of the cold winter: “All a man had to do was to keep his head, and he was all right. Any man who was a man could travel alone.”

Even as he realizes that the weather is much colder than he expected, he does not give up.

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Perseverance and determination

The theme of perseverance and determination is illustrated by the man. From the very beginning, the man is determined to reach his destination by a certain hour regardless of the weather which is against his plans. Up to a certain point, he even succeeds.

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