The short story “To Build a Fire” by Jack London is an excellent example of naturalism in literature. Naturalism is a literary movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, focused on the depiction of a harsh and indifferent life shaped primarily by natural forces. In this essay we will explore the elements of naturalism present in the story of London and how they contribute to the overall theme and message. Through an analysis of the protagonist's struggle against a hostile environment, the depiction of nature as an indifferent force, and its emphasis on survival instincts, it becomes clear that "To Build a Fire" aligns with the key principles of naturalism.Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get Original Essay The protagonist of “To Build a Fire” faces many challenges as he ventures through the frozen territory of the Yukon. The extreme cold and hostile nature create a feeling of danger and isolation for the character. The author vividly describes the protagonist's physical discomfort, such as the freezing of his cheeks and the numbness of his fingers, which highlight the harshness of the environment. London's use of descriptive language immerses the reader in the protagonist's struggle, emphasizing the power of nature to master human existence. "Fifty degrees below zero meant eighty degrees of freezing... He was quick and alert in the things of life, but only in things, not in their meanings." This quote illustrates the lack of understanding of protagonist as to the meaning of extreme cold He focuses on the immediate tasks at hand, rather than considering the broader implications of his situation. This lack of awareness is a characteristic of naturalism, as it emphasizes the insignificance of beings. humans versus the power of nature. In "To Build a Fire", nature is described as an indifferent force that operates independently of human desires and intentions. The story emphasizes the idea that nature does not. does not care about the survival or well-being of individuals. The protagonist's attempts to light a fire for warmth are constantly thwarted by the harsh conditions, symbolizing nature's indifference to human needs. He was no longer ashamed of the fire that obsessed him. If he had thought about it, he would have known that it wasn't quite the right thing to do, that it was a little. provocative of the gods to go and taunt them with the exhibition of such a burning thing made by the hands of man. "This passage highlights the protagonist's awareness that nature is not to be provoked or taunted. His desperation to survive leads him to question his actions and understand the consequences of his distrust of the forces of nature This depiction of nature as an indifferent and powerful force aligns with the principles of naturalism. Survival instincts play a crucial role in "To Build a Fire". led to its downfall However, London also explores the idea that survival instincts are inherent in all living things and that they can mean the difference between life and death in extreme circumstances, a chechaquo,. and it was his first winter. The trouble with him was that he was unimaginative and alert in the things of life, but only in things, not in meanings. highlights the protagonist's lack of imagination, which contributes to his downfall. Although he possesses physical strengths and skills, his inability to. 73-89.