To Build A Fire Essay

Published in 1908, To Build a Fire by Jack London, sparks the adrenaline and adventure in all of us. This short story hooks the reader from the very beginning with it’s unique setting, underlying theme, and distinct symbolism. The challenges the man faces, from hazardous sub-zero temperatures and hidden spring pools to frostbite and impending death, grab the reader’s attention and doesn’t let go. The rare setting of To Build a Fire might arguably be the most important component to the story. The story takes place during the Klondike Gold Rush that occurred in the Yukon Territory. This was a time when over 100,000 men congregated in the Yukon in search of gold and the idea of getting rich quickly. The migration of so many people to one area

Throughout the story, the reader sees the man constantly reassuring himself of his journey and his end goal to get to camp, masking his uncertain thoughts and impending fears. Reading London’s vivid descriptions and challenges the man faces, the reader is drawn in to participate by weighing their mental toughness and their ability to persevere through the difficult situations in the harsh environment. Pride plays a crucial role in the outcome of the story. It can be interpreted in both a good and bad light in the case of the man in To Build a Fire. From the beginning the man takes great pride in his survival abilities such as his skills to spot the dangerous spring pools and to build a fire for warmth. The man also, although aware of the old timer’s advice, deliberately chose not to follow his guidance to not travel alone, especially in treacherous fifty degrees below zero temperatures. “Those old-timers were rather womanish, some of them, he thought. All a man had to do was keep his head, and he was all right. Any man who was a man could travel alone.” (London,