1. Harsh Setting: London craftily sets the story in the harsh and unforgivable wilderness of the Yukon Territory during winter. This inhospitable environment serves as a constant reminder of the dominance of nature over humans, highlighting the vulnerability of man in the face of nature's forces.
2. Main Character: The protagonist, a nameless man, symbolizes humanity's struggle against the elements. His determination to build a fire becomes a metaphor for human survival and resilience against the overwhelming forces of nature.
3. Dog as a Companion: The man's dog is portayed as a loyal and instinctual creature, symbolizing the harmony that can exist between man and nature when humans respect and understand their place within the natural world.
4. Conflict and Resolution: The central conflict of the story revolves around the man's battle against freezing to death. His desperate attempt to build a fire reflects the eternal struggle between humans seeking control and nature's relentless pushback. The resolution of the story, where the man succumbs to nature's power, emphasizes the fragility of human existence in the face of overwhelming natural forces.
5. Symbolism of Fire: The fire represents warmth, comfort and life, which are essential elements for human survival. The man's obsession with building a fire mirrors humanity's reliance on technology and resources to tame nature. However, the fire ultimately fails to save the man, highlighting the limitations of human control over nature.
Overall, through the setting, characters, and symbolic elements, Jack London depicts the dynamic relationship between man and nature in "Build a Fire." He illustrates the struggle for survival, the complexities of human hubris, and the ever-present power of nature, leaving a profound reflection on the boundaries and vulnerabilities of human existence within the natural world.