Explain how the central conflict in Jack London short story “To Build a Fire” contributes to the story’s overall theme.
Directions: Write an eight-sentence constructed response
The central conflict in Jack London's short story "To Build a Fire" is the man's struggle against the extreme cold of the Yukon wilderness. The man, accompanied only by a dog, is trying to reach his friends at a mining camp, but his lack of preparedness and underestimation of the harsh conditions become apparent as the story unfolds. As he continues his journey, the conflict intensifies, with the man facing various obstacles such as falling through ice into a freezing stream and struggling to build a fire to keep warm.
This central conflict contributes to the story's overall theme of the indifference and power of nature. Throughout the narrative, London portrays nature as an uncompromising force that does not bend to human will or desires. The man's repeated attempts to defy the extreme cold and survive ultimately prove futile, emphasizing the unassailable power of the natural world.
The conflict also highlights the man's arrogance and ignorance in his belief that he can conquer nature. He ignores warnings and advice from more experienced individuals, underestimating the severity of the cold and overestimating his own abilities. This hubris leads to his downfall and serves as a cautionary lesson about the consequences of human pride and the importance of respecting and understanding the natural world.
Additionally, the conflict between the man and the cold also underscores the theme of the fragility of human life. Despite the man's best efforts, he is unable to overcome the freezing temperatures, and his body gradually succumbs to hypothermia. The extreme and unforgiving conditions of the wilderness serve as a reminder of how delicate and vulnerable human existence can be.
Overall, the central conflict in "To Build a Fire" contributes to the story's theme by highlighting the power and indifference of nature, cautioning against human arrogance, and emphasizing the fragility of human life in the face of the natural world.