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To Build a Fire: Difference between revisions
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The importance of community as opposed to self-reliance in survival and growth is emphasized in “Fire.”{{sfn|Sipiora|2002|p=161}} | The importance of community as opposed to self-reliance in survival and growth is emphasized in “Fire.”{{sfn|Sipiora|2002|p=161}} | ||
The limit of individualism is a key theme in this story. The protagonist of the novel frequently claims his ability to travel alone and feels he can survive the harsh winter conditions. Despite the cautions of the old man at Sulphur Creek, he refuses to travel with a companion, which ultimately leads to his death. The man is unaware of the value of receiving assistance from others and believes that his own abilities will assure his survival. Apart from declining to go with a companion, the man demonstrates independence by dismissing the old man's wisdom and ignoring experience and guidance. The fact that the old man is an American in unfamiliar terrain is one piece of information that we are provided with. Individual freedoms and liberties are prized in American culture, and London's experience exemplifies the risks that these beliefs can engender. | |||
==Development History== | ==Development History== | ||