1. Determinism and the Power of Nature: The story emphasizes the harsh and unyielding nature of the Yukon wilderness. The man, despite his arrogance and self-reliance, is ultimately powerless against the unforgiving cold, the frozen creek, and the unforgiving landscape. His fate is predetermined by the brutal forces of nature, highlighting the deterministic view of naturalism.
2. Survival of the Fittest: The story paints a stark picture of survival, where only the fittest can endure. The man's lack of respect for the environment and his overconfidence lead to his downfall, showcasing the Darwinian principle of natural selection. The dog, on the other hand, instinctively understands the dangers and survives by relying on its primal instincts.
3. Social Darwinism: The story indirectly touches upon the social Darwinist concept, where the man's lack of experience and his reliance on technology (the fire) ultimately proves his downfall. This suggests that the individual's survival depends on his ability to adapt and thrive in a harsh environment, echoing the social Darwinist notion of "survival of the fittest" in society.
4. Objective and Unsentimental Tone: London's writing is characterized by a stark, detached, and objective tone. He avoids emotional embellishments and presents the man's struggle against nature with a stark realism, avoiding any romanticism or sentimentality.
5. Characters as Products of Their Environment: The man, driven by his arrogance and lack of understanding of the environment, becomes a tragic figure. He is a product of his own limitations and the harsh environment he finds himself in. His demise serves as a stark reminder of the human condition and the power of nature.
6. Focus on Physical Existence and Primitivism: The story emphasizes the physical struggle for survival. The man's desperate attempts to build a fire and his struggle against the elements highlight the primal instincts and the basic human need for survival in the face of nature's raw power.
7. Social Commentary: While not explicitly stated, "To Build a Fire" can be interpreted as a commentary on human hubris and the potential consequences of unchecked progress. The man's reliance on technology and his disregard for the environment lead to his downfall, hinting at a broader message about the need for caution and respect for the natural world.
In conclusion, "To Build a Fire" successfully embodies the key tenets of naturalistic literature. It presents a stark portrayal of the human condition in the face of a powerful and indifferent natural world, highlighting the themes of determinism, survival, and the relentless forces of nature.