Question

Lines 240-243: Explain why this event is important to the story’s plot. Why does London choose to describe it using an objective tone instead of dramatic language?

Answer 1

To Build a Fire is a naturalist tale and naturalism was a literary movement that aimed to provide an accurate, scientific depiction of reality without any kind of literary embellishment. With regards to this specific story: this event is important because it sets in motion the chain of events that will ultimately result in the main character's death. London uses the objective tone because it allows the reader to fully comprehend what this event potentially means for the perspective on the future survival of the man. The very factual and somewhat scientific tone conveys the accurate author's knowledge of the subject, rendering the situation more vivid and real for the reader.