Jack London's - "To Build a Fire"

[BOSSHOG]

Short Story Attached:

http://www.jacklondons.net/buildafire.html

I read this short story several years ago and it still sticks with me. Really scary stuff with no monsters or science fiction here. Just man's vulnerability in the face of nature and his often failed attempts to save himself. Enjoy!

[saltpoint]

1. A great story. Have always loved it.

London is the adventure writer of choice for a lot of folks.

[louis-t]

2. Read it in high school, 1970, Powerful.

To this day, I am occasionally reminded of the story.

Ahhh, just read it again. Brilliant!

[Tace]

3. Reason Jack London Is My Favorite

When people ask me who is my favorite writer, I often say "Jack London." And this is one of my favorite Jack London stories.

[BOSSHOG]

4. At the other end of the spectrum

is Travels with Charlie. If you are out of books, reread London.

[JuniperLea]

5. Great book!

One of my all time favorites. A real page-turner.

[Orrex]

6. A fine story! (spoiler)

I recall in my 10th grade English class that it created a ruckus when the man died. My classmates (and, I must admit, that includes me) had absorbed too much happy-ending crap from popular media, so a story in which the guy just plain dies was a real jolt for us.

I especially like the fact that, if memory serves, he's referred to only as "the man," rather than by name. He is each of us, helpless against the elements. While the "dumb" animal makes it through just fine!

Great stuff--I should re-read it tonight!

[BOSSHOG]

7. I've provided it

in my original post. Powerful stuff.

[Orrex]

8. Thanks--but I have it in a few anthologies

When it comes to my lit-books, I'm an unapologetic packrat.

But if my afternoon gets slow, I might read it online!

[mitchum]

9. Reread it a couple of months ago

Brilliant