Symbolism In Call Of The Wild, By Jack London

Jack London uses symbolism to describe the main character in Call of the Wild, Buck, in ways that other elements could not. For instance, in chapter one the author uses symbolism by saying “Buck lived at a big house in the sun kissed Santa Clara Valley.”(pg.4) The author uses words like “kissed” and “sun” in a pattern that would show that Buck had it all. His life was good and using “sun kissed" would very well remind the reader of a beautiful home in the spring without worries. Later on, in page ten the situation has changed but not the use of symbolism. Buck was kidnapped by one of his master’s workers in exchange for money in the beginning of the story. No longer is he in the loving garden of his home but in the dominion of man, full of hatred, love, greed, and destiny. Buck is being mistreated and in the process is thrown into an ill-suited cage. The author describes his feelings as “There he lay for the remainder of the night, nursing his wrath and wounded pride.” (pg.10) and “at the tail of the shrieking locomotive.”(pg.11) London is trying to show the reader that Buck is still trying to live in the nursery of his master’s house. He later emphasizes that if Buck does not change then his immature way of living will have him killed. “The Law of Club and Fang” (Pg.25) His ways of conveying this include using the errors of other dogs and the actions, good and bad, of humans.

The author uses words that greatly describe the tone and mood to a point that it becomes life like and a natural part of this piece. As the author speaks his voice and meaning allow the reader to immerse himself in Buck’s life. Jack London uses moving word choice along with symbolism and voice to power the reader into thought that will manifest this book into more than just a story, but a part of the reader’s