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Post by connorswauger on Jun 5, 2024 3:23:11 GMT
In reading To Build a Fire, the main theme that i notices, was the insignificance of man in contrast to the vast power of nature. One of the first images shown in the text portrays the comparisons of the size of the man to the blanket of white snow that surrounds him. In this image, the man is alone and survival becomes his sole purpose. He understands the steps he must take to survive but also must compete against the unpredictable nature of the terrain. Even with the acquired company of the wild dog, both the man and the dog are equal in their quest for survival. Eventually the man succumbs to the power of nature and in his death, the dog is still saddled with is goal of personal survival.
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Post by meagangcurrie on Jun 5, 2024 18:23:36 GMT
The conflict between man and nature intrigues me throughout the story. Including the blankets of snow, there is also the absence of sun, which creates a darker and harsher environment for the man. Also, noting the dog with the man, it seems that the two are not exactly companions, but both are helping each other to survive. This "help", I would say, is not out of kindness but out of necessity.
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Post by dianarmartinez on Jun 6, 2024 1:14:51 GMT
I would disagree because the wild dog eventually does accompany the man through his struggles. Yes, it could be hard to say the dog is a company because the intentions of the dog were unknown. However, we could say that this bond started as a need for survival and what one would give for the other. Eventually, the dog senses the man's behavior and chooses to be careful. They share struggles and help one another, which can show a bond building or at least the beginning of trust.
Isn't that what a company is? He was told not to go by himself and that it would be best to have company. If the dog was a human instead. Would it not be the same intention? Would the company not only be there for survival purposes? Not to pass the time or see if they would enjoy each other's company, but it would be for survival purposes.
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