In both “Powder” and “To Build a Fire,” a character brings a travel companion on a risky winter journey.
Read both texts. Then, write an essay in which you compare how the authors develop the theme of trust.
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In both the short stories "Powder" by Tobias Wolff and "To Build a Fire" by Jack London, the theme of trust is developed through the characters' reliance on their travel companions during risky winter journeys. Both authors explore the concept of trust by depicting instances of reliance, vulnerability, and the consequences that result from trusting or not trusting one's companion.
In "Powder," the unnamed narrator's father takes him on a risky winter journey to return home for Christmas. Throughout the story, the narrator places his trust in his father, despite his apparent recklessness and disregard for rules. This is evident when the father decides to take an alternate route through the closed mountain pass. The narrator, although initially apprehensive, chooses to trust his father's judgment and intuition, even providing him with evidence of his trust by stating, "I think I would have done anything he asked" (Wolff). The father, in turn, displays his trustworthiness by ensuring their safety through his resourcefulness and perseverance. This is depicted when he manages to convince a highway patrolman to let them pass through the closed road. Despite the potential risks ahead, the narrator feels safe and secure in his father's presence and ultimately realizes the significance of their journey and the bond of trust they share.
Similarly, in "To Build a Fire," the protagonist is accompanied by a loyal dog on his journey through the harsh Yukon. The man, full of confidence and self-reliance, underestimates the power of the freezing cold and ignores the advice given to him by an old-timer he encounters at Sulfur Creek. He chooses to trust his own instincts rather than relying on the experience and wisdom of others. As the story progresses, the man's trust in his own abilities is severely tested as he faces numerous life-threatening challenges. Despite his intelligence and knowledge, he falls victim to the relentless cold, while his dog, who is portrayed as instinctive and reliable, is the only one who manages to survive. London's depiction of the man's arrogant self-trust serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of relying on others and acknowledging the vulnerability that comes with trusting one's own judgment.
In both stories, the authors also explore the consequences of misplaced trust or lack thereof. In "Powder," the narrator's trust in his father is validated as they successfully overcome the obstacles and arrive home safely. The father's adventurous nature and ability to navigate dangerous situations reinforces the trust the narrator has placed in him. Conversely, in "To Build a Fire," the protagonist's lack of trust in the advice of others leads to his downfall. His arrogance and self-assuredness cause him to overlook the dangers of the icy conditions, resulting in his demise. London's portrayal of the dog as a symbol of trustworthiness highlights the contrast between the man's misguided self-trust and the trust that should have been placed in his companion.
In conclusion, both "Powder" and "To Build a Fire" develop the theme of trust through depictions of reliance, vulnerability, and the consequences of misplaced trust. Wolff emphasizes the bond between the narrator and his father, showcasing the positive outcomes that result from trusting one's travel companion. London, on the other hand, warns against the dangers of self-trust and highlights the importance of relying on others. Despite their different approaches, both authors convey the significance of trust in navigating risky winter journeys.