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To Build a Fire

Jack london.

Ask LitCharts AI: The answer to your questions

Welcome to the LitCharts study guide on Jack London's To Build a Fire . Created by the original team behind SparkNotes, LitCharts are the world's best literature guides.

To Build a Fire: Introduction

To build a fire: plot summary, to build a fire: detailed summary & analysis, to build a fire: themes, to build a fire: quotes, to build a fire: characters, to build a fire: symbols, to build a fire: literary devices, to build a fire: quiz, to build a fire: theme wheel, brief biography of jack london.

Historical Context of To Build a Fire

Other books related to to build a fire.

• Full Title: To Build A Fire
• When Written: Revised between 1902 and 1908
• Where Written: Jack London’s ranch in Glen Ellen, California
• When Published: 1908
• Literary Period: Naturalism (Realism)
• Genre: Fiction
• Setting: The Yukon Trail, Canada
• Climax: Snow suddenly falls from a tree and puts out the man’s fire he built after falling into the water. From that point onward, his rapidly freezing body prevents any attempts at survival.
• Antagonist: Nature, cold weather
• Point of View: Third-person omniscient

Extra Credit for To Build a Fire

1902 version. An early version of “To Build A Fire” was published in 1902 in a magazine called The Youth Companion . In that version, the man survives.

Film adaptations. Four film adaptations of the short story have been released, including an animated version (2016), a perhaps surprising choice for a grim story that ends in death.

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English Studies

This website is dedicated to English Literature, Literary Criticism, Literary Theory, English Language and its teaching and learning.

“To Build a Fire” by Jack London: Analysis

“To Build a Fire” by Jack London, a short story first published in 1908, has become one of his most renowned works.

Introduction: “To Build a Fire” by Jack London

Table of Contents

“To Build a Fire” by Jack London , a short story first published in 1908, has become one of his most renowned works. The tale’s popularity has endured since its debut, with translations into numerous languages and adaptations across various mediums by filmmakers and television producers. London masterfully depicts the unforgiving Alaskan wilderness, building tension and suspense throughout the narrative. The story’s allure stems from its vivid portrayal of nature and its examination of human resilience in the face of overwhelming challenges.

Main Events in “To Build a Fire” by Jack London

• A man sets out in extreme cold: A newcomer to the Yukon, lacking experience with extreme cold, travels alone with his dog on a day when temperatures are far below zero. He ignores advice from an experienced man at Sulphur Creek, who warns him against traveling alone in such conditions.
• The man ignores warning signs: He dismisses the initial cold, fails to heed the subtle signs of danger like spit freezing in the air, and even scoffs at the idea that anyone could freeze to death in such temperatures.
• A hidden danger: The man confidently navigates until he misjudges a hidden spring beneath the snow, plunging his feet into freezing water that quickly soaks his boots and socks.
• The struggle to build a fire: Recognizing the immediate danger, he carefully selects a sheltered spot beneath a spruce tree and sets about building a fire to dry his feet and stave off death.
• Failure and panic: Snow cascading from the tree’s branches smothers his first fire. Fear intensifies as he realizes the severity of his situation.
• A second attempt: Driven by increasing desperation, he gathers more wood and tinder, meticulously placing them to build his second fire.
• Challenges mount: His severely frozen hands, now lacking any feeling, fumble with the matches and struggle to grasp small twigs to fuel the fire.
• A sense of doom: As his final fire falters, a wave of overwhelming dread washes over him, and he understands that he may not survive.
• A shift toward instinct: He imagines killing his dog and using its warm body for shelter, a desperate survival tactic he had heard about, but ultimately cannot bring himself to do it.
• Acceptance and death: Overcome by the cold and despair, the man gives up his struggle, envisioning his own frozen body discovered by his friends. He drifts into unconsciousness and dies.

Literary Devices in “To Build a Fire” by Jack London

1. Imagery : London uses vivid sensory details to bring the Yukon’s harsh environment to life.

• “…the Yukon lay a mile wide and hidden under three feet of ice. On top of this ice were as many feet of snow.”

2. Personification : Nature is often given human-like qualities, reinforcing its power and indifference.

• “The cold of space smote the unprotected tip of the planet…”

3. Symbolism : Key elements take on deeper meanings.

• Fire: Represents survival, hope, struggle against nature
• The Dog: Embodies instinct and a contrasting survival strategy

4. Foreshadowing : Hints of the man’s fate are scattered throughout.

• The old-timer at Sulphur Creek’s warnings about the danger of the extreme cold.

5. Dramatic Irony : Readers know the peril the man remains blind to, increasing tension.

• “He was a newcomer in the land… and he did not understand how seriously low temperatures could be.”

6. Situational Irony : The outcome clashes with expectations, emphasizing nature’s power.

• The man’s meticulous second fire fails despite being better planned than his first.

7. Simile : Creative comparisons enhance descriptions.

• “The old-timer had been very serious in laying down the law that no man must travel alone in the Klondike after fifty below.”

8. Metaphor : Implied comparisons add depth and meaning. * “The dog… was a furry ball of instinct…”

9. Naturalism : The story emphasizes humanity’s vulnerability to nature’s forces.

• The man’s intellect fails in the face of brutal, unforgiving elements.

10. Contrast: Differences highlight character and theme. * The man’s overconfidence vs. the dog’s wariness * The man’s intellect vs. the dog’s instinct

11. Juxtaposition : Placing elements side-by-side creates contrast * The cozy images of camp life are juxtaposed with the man’s exposed, solitary journey.

12. Diction : Word choice builds atmosphere and theme. * “It was a clear day, and yet there seemed an intangible pall over the face of things…”

13. Tone : Bleak and increasingly ominous as the story progresses, mirrors the protagonist’s situation.

14. Mood : A sense of dread and foreboding permeates the narrative.

15. Allusion : Subtle reference strengthens meaning and theme. * London alludes to Mercury, the Roman god of travel, commenting on the irony of moving so fast with frozen feet.

Characterization in “To Build a Fire” by Jack London

Major Themes in “To Build a Fire” by Jack London

• The man’s struggle against the unforgiving Yukon wilderness.
• His vulnerability against the overwhelming power of natural forces (extreme cold, hidden dangers).
• The man’s dismissal of the old-timer’s warnings and his underestimation of the cold.
• His overconfidence and lack of understanding of the environment’s dangers directly lead to his demise.
• The contrast between the man’s reliance on logic and the dog’s instinctual understanding of the danger.
• The man’s intellect fails him; survival in the wilderness might have been possible with a more instinctual response.
• The delicate balance required for survival in extreme conditions.
• The stark reality that one misstep can have fatal consequences.
• The man’s solitary journey emphasizes his lack of support and resources.
• The dog’s presence provides minimal companionship but also highlights what the man lacks – a human connection that might have influenced his journey and decisions.

Writing Style in “To Build a Fire” by Jack London

• Objective, observational tone, focused on external actions and events.
• Example: “The man plunged into the big creek, and he went down to his knees.”
• Minimalist descriptions and straightforward sentences emphasize the bleak environment.
• Example: “The Yukon lay…hidden under three feet of ice. On top of this ice were as many feet of snow.”
• Specific sensory details bring the Yukon wilderness to life.
• Example: “…the whole face of Nature seemed to be trying to obliterate itself.”
• Careful word choice creates a strong sense of foreboding and isolation.
• Example: “It was a clear day, and yet there seemed an intangible pall over the face of things…”
• Repeated descriptions of the cold and numbness, emphasize their relentless impact.
• Example: “[His] feet were freezing…,” “[His] nose and cheeks were already freezing…”
• Subtle hints at the man’s fate increase tension.
• Example: The old-timer warning the man against traveling alone in such cold.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “To Build a Fire” by Jack London

Note: This is just a sampling! There are other theories that could be applied (e.g., Marxist, psychological, feminist).

Questions and Thesis Statements about “To Build a Fire” by Jack London

• Choose a question that interests you: The best thesis statements come from genuine curiosity.
• Be specific in your thesis: A focused thesis leads to a stronger paper.
• Link your thesis to evidence: Be prepared to cite examples from the story supporting your argument.

Short Question-Answer about “To Build a Fire” by Jack London

• The title “To Build a Fire” highlights the central theme of man versus nature. The man’s initial success building a fire to warm himself represents survival. His subsequent failure to maintain a fire, ultimately leading to his demise, emphasizes the harsh reality of the natural world and the importance of human preparation and adaptation in the face of nature’s power.
• The man and the dog have a complicated relationship in the story. While the man initially views the dog as a mere tool for survival (possibly sensing warmth), the dog seems to sense danger and discomfort with the journey. Their relationship demonstrates the contrast between the man’s arrogance and reliance on intellect, and the dog’s instinct and wariness of the environment.
• The extreme cold, harsh weather conditions, and unforgiving landscape contribute to the bleak, hopeless, and fatalistic tone. Specific details like “…the Yukon lay a mile wide and hidden under three feet of ice. On top of this ice were as many feet of snow…” convey the isolation and danger, emphasizing the fragility of human life in the face of nature’s power.
• The man’s lack of imagination, directly noted by London (“He was a newcomer in the land…and this was his first winter. The trouble with him was that he was without imagination.”), emphasizes his inability to adapt to his surroundings. It highlights the limitations of knowledge and technology against nature’s power. His reliance on judgment and logic fails him; he disregards the old-timer’s warnings and even his body’s signals, leading to his underestimation of the weather’s severity and his lack of preparation.

Suggested Readings: “To Build a Fire” by Jack London

Literary analysis & criticism.

• Focuses on survival in London’s works, including “To Build a Fire”.
• Explores recurring themes and techniques across London’s short stories.
• Provides a helpful overview of Naturalism and its key themes.
• Considered a classic scholarly work on American literary Naturalism.
• Brief summary and analysis of the story.
• Extensive website with biographical information, resources, and links to other relevant sites

Related posts:

• The Cask of Amontillado by Edgar Allen Poe
• “The Use of Force” by William Carlos Williams
• “Battle Royal” by Ralph Ellison
• “A Small, Good Thing” by Raymond Carver

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Teacher Guide

To build a fire lesson plan.

• Introduction to To Build a Fire

Published in 1908, "To Build a Fire" is a short story heavily influenced by its author's experience and by the literary movement called Naturalism. Naturalism was an offshoot of Charles Darwin's and Herbert Spencer's theories on evolution. In his monumental 1859 work The Origin of Species , Darwin theorized that environments alter the biology and behavior of organisms; the organisms whose traits promote survival reproduce more successfully and adapt new, more efficient traits. Spencer applied Darwin's ideas to the human experience, making Social Darwinism an influential philosophy of the late 19th century.

Naturalists saw evolution as proof that the world is deterministic and that...

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To Build a Fire Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for To Build a Fire is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

The author’s descriptions of the cold weather suggest that —

A. the cold should never be underestimated.

what motivations do the man's thoughts reveal? how could these lead to a dilemma that advances the plot

The man has hubris or pride. He thinks that he can outsmart nature and make it to the boys at Henderson Creek. He thinks he knows better than his very apprehensive husky and the old timer's advice. If the man respected nature he would have...

. Works of naturalism often address the theme of survival of the fittest. Give examples that show how London’s story develops this theme. What message does the story convey about the survival of the fittest?

Jack London specialized in stories about the wilderness. His running theme involved the raw majesty and power of the elements. Naturalism was London's mantra and this story is a perfect example of this. In "To Build a Fire" the setting is in the...

Study Guide for To Build a Fire

To Build a Fire study guide contains a biography of Jack London, literature essays, a complete e-text, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

• About To Build a Fire
• To Build a Fire Summary
• To Build a Fire Video
• Character List

Essays for To Build a Fire

To Build a Fire literature essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of To Build a Fire.

• Chain-smoking: Causality in "To Build a Fire"
• Realism: Compare and Contrast
• Literary Naturalism: A Comparison of Maggie: A Girl of the Streets and To Build A Fire
• Our America: The Abiding Question of Nation and National Identity in American Literature
• A War Against Nature: Instinct in "To Build a Fire"

Lesson Plan for To Build a Fire

• About the Author
• Study Objectives
• Common Core Standards
• Relationship to Other Books
• Bringing in Technology
• Notes to the Teacher
• Related Links
• To Build a Fire Bibliography

E-Text of To Build a Fire

The To Build a Fire e-text contains the full text of To Build a Fire by Jack London.

• Full Text of To Build a Fire

Wikipedia Entries for To Build a Fire

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How to Write an Introduction Paragraph: Examples and Guide

There are times when an introduction predicts what your entire essay will say—it’s essentially a reflection. If done successfully, it grabs the reader’s attention and entices them to read further into the essay. As a writer, I know the importance of a strong and engaging introduction, and with practice, I have excelled in the art of writing a good intro. Here’s how you can write a compelling introduction with examples.

The Purpose of the Introduction Paragraph

A good introduction serves as a roadmap for your essay, setting the stage for what is to come. Its primary purpose is to grab the reader’s attention, provide necessary background information, and clearly state the main argument or thesis of the essay. By doing so, it helps the reader transition from their own world into the context of your analysis, making them interested in reading further. A well-written introduction also outlines the structure of the essay, ensuring that the reader knows what to expect in the body paragraphs. This initial section is crucial for making a strong first impression, establishing the tone, and demonstrating the quality and direction of your work. A good introduction paragraph should be able to:

Engage the Reader: Capture interest with an intriguing opening sentence or a compelling story.

Provide Context: Offer background information needed to understand the topic.

State the Thesis: Clearly present your main argument or thesis statement.

Outline the Structure: Briefly mention the main points or sections covered in the essay.

Establish Relevance: Explain why the topic is important and worth discussing.

Set the Tone: Establish the style and tone of your writing.

Write an Introduction Paragraph

An introduction paragraph sets the tone for your entire essay, shaping your reader's expectations and mood. It's like the gateway to your ideas - a good one hooks the reader, compelling them to continue, while a weak introduction might make them lose interest before they've even begun. That's why learning how to start an introduction paragraph for an essay is crucial for students and writers alike.

With tools like WPS Office at your fingertips, you're not just getting a word processor, but an AI assistant to guide you through the entire journey of crafting that perfect opening. In fact, I'll be using WPS Office for this tutorial to demonstrate its features. So, let's dive in and explore how to write an essay introduction step by step:

The hook is the opening sentence or a few sentences of an essay designed to grab the reader's attention and entice them to keep reading. It serves to engage the reader by presenting something intriguing, surprising, or relevant to the essay's topic.

The main purpose of the hook is to spark the reader's interest and make them want to read more. It's the first impression the reader gets, so it needs to be compelling and relevant to the essay's subject.

1.Start with a Surprising Fact or Statistic: Begin with an interesting or shocking fact that relates to your topic. This immediately grabs the reader's attention.

Bad Example: "Drunk driving is a serious issue."

Good Example: "Every year, over 1.25 million people die in car accidents, many of which are caused by drunk driving."

2.Use a Quote: Introduce your essay with a relevant quote that encapsulates your main point.

Bad Example: "Drunk driving is defined as driving while impaired by alcohol."

Good Example: “At eighteen, Michelle had a lifetime of promise in front of her. Attending college on a track scholarship, she was earning good grades and making lots of friends. Then one night her life was forever altered…”

3.Pose a Rhetorical Question: Ask a question that provokes thought and engages the reader.

Bad Example: "Have you ever driven a car?"

Good Example: "What if every time you got behind the wheel, you risked not only your life but the lives of others?"

4.Tell an Anecdote or Story: Share a brief, compelling story that relates to your topic.

Bad Example: "I once heard a story about a drunk driver."

Good Example: "At eighteen, Michelle had a lifetime of promise in front of her. Attending college on a track scholarship, she was earning good grades and making lots of friends. Then one night her life was forever altered..."

If you need ideas to help you improve on the hook for your introduction, consider providing WPS AI with a prompt such as:

"Write an introduction on the topic 'Risks of Driving Intoxicated' and provide four individual hooks: one with a surprising fact, one using a quote, one with rhetorical questions, and one through telling an anecdote."

WPS AI will produce a catchy hook statement that you can use for your introduction, such as:

Background Information

Background information provides the reader with the necessary context to understand the essay's topic. This may include historical, geographical, or social context, definitions of key terms, or an outline of the debate surrounding the topic.

The background helps to bridge the gap between the hook and the thesis statement. It gives the reader the context they need to understand the main argument of the essay and why it's important.

1.Provide Context: Explain the broader context of your topic to show its significance.

Bad Example: "Drunk driving is bad."

Good Example: "Michelle's story is not isolated. Each year, over 1.25 million people die in car accidents, many of which are caused by drunk driving."

2.Introduce Key Terms and Concepts: Define any terms or concepts that are crucial to understanding your thesis.

Bad Example: "Drunk driving is when you drink alcohol and drive."

Good Example: "Drunk driving, legally defined as operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, is a preventable cause of many fatalities."

3.Set Up the Problem: Briefly discuss the scope of the issue or debate you will be addressing.

Bad Example: "People drive drunk sometimes."

Good Example: "Despite strict laws, drunk driving continues to be a significant problem worldwide, leading to devastating consequences for victims and their families."

To give an effective and detailed background information in your introduction consider proving WPS AI with a prompt like this:

“This serves as the background to my introduction: 'People frequently choose to drive under the influence of alcohol.' Please enhance it to address the problem and discuss its scope."

WPS AI will produce a detailed background passage for your introduction, give as:

Thesis Statement

The thesis statement is a concise summary of the main point or claim of the essay. It usually appears at the end of the introduction and states the essay's central argument or position.

The thesis statement guides the direction of the essay by informing the reader what the essay will argue or discuss. It sets the tone and focus of the entire paper.

1.Be Clear and Specific: Clearly state your main point and how you will support it.

Bad Example: "This essay will talk about drunk driving."

Good Example: "Drunk driving laws need to include stricter penalties for those convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol to reduce accidents and save lives."

2.Make an Argument: Present a claim that requires evidence and can be debated.

Bad Example: "Drunk driving is bad and should be stopped."

Good Example: "Implementing harsher penalties for drunk driving will deter offenders and significantly decrease the number of alcohol-related accidents."

3.Outline Your Main Points: Indicate the main points you will cover in your essay to support your thesis.

Bad Example: "I will discuss the problems with drunk driving."

Good Example: "Stricter penalties are necessary because they act as a deterrent, they can prevent repeat offenses, and they provide justice for victims."

You can take help from WPS AI to extract the thesis statement of your essay using the WPS AI chat box.

Step 1: Click on the WPS AI widget at the top corner of the WPS Writer interface.

Step 2: The WPS AI pane will open on the right side of the screen. Type in your prompt to extract the thesis statement of your essay and then paste the essay.

Here is a prompt example that you can use:

"Extract the thesis statement from the following essay:"

Step 3: WPS AI will provide the thesis statement. To refine it further, engage with the WPS AI chatbot by asking more questions or queries.

The summary or road map briefly outlines how the essay will be structured. It provides a preview of the main points that will be covered, giving the reader a sense of the direction of the argument.

1.Summarize Main Points: Briefly mention the key arguments or points you will discuss in your essay.

Bad Example: "I will talk about drunk driving laws, penalties, and justice."

Good Example: "This essay will first examine the current state of drunk driving laws, then explore the impact of stricter penalties on reducing incidents, and finally discuss how these penalties can bring justice to victims."

2.Be Concise: Keep it short and to the point, providing a clear outline without going into too much detail.

Bad Example: "I will write about drunk driving and why it is bad."

Good Example: "By examining the effectiveness of current laws, the potential benefits of stricter penalties, and the importance of justice for victims, this essay argues that harsher punishments for drunk driving are essential."

“Write a concise summary for the introduction of an essay on the topic "Risks of Driving Intoxicated." The summary should briefly mention the key points that will be covered in the essay, without going into too much detail."

The summary should briefly outline the main points covered in the essay, emphasizing the societal impact, legal ramifications, and personal consequences of driving under the influence. Ensure clarity and coherence, setting the stage for a comprehensive exploration of the topic in the subsequent sections.

Examples of Different Essays

Essays come in various forms, each serving a unique purpose and following specific structures. Understanding these different types can help you write an essay introduction more effectively. Let's explore three common types of essays: Argumentative, Expository, and Literary. Each example below demonstrates the key elements of its respective essay type, including the hook, background information, and thesis statement.

Argumentary

An argumentative essay aims to present a position on a topic and support it with evidence.

An expository essay explains a topic in a clear and concise manner without arguing a specific position.

A literary essay analyzes and interprets a work of literature, focusing on elements such as theme, character, or style.

More Examples of Different Topics

Let's take a look at some sample introductions of essays in different disciplines. This will further help you in writing an effective essay introduction.

Example #1 Medicine

Example #2 literature, example #3 social sciences, example #4 engineering, example #5 business & marketing, using wps ai to perfect your introduction.

With WPS Office, you have access to a comprehensive suite of tools designed to support your academic writing needs. Its AI-powered features enhance your writing process, from initial drafting to final proofreading. Specifically, WPS Office AI will help perfect your introduction, ensuring it captures attention and sets the stage for your paper. Plus, WPS Office is available for free, making it an accessible and indispensable resource for students and academics alike.

1.Check the Grammar and Syntax

Your introduction sets the tone for your entire essay, so it's crucial that it's grammatically correct and free from syntax errors. WPS AI careful checks for any grammatical mistakes and syntax issues, ensuring that your introduction is polished and professional. It provides suggestions for corrections, helping you present a clear and error-free first impression.

2.Rewrite Your Statement for Clarity

WPS AI can improve the clarity and coherence of your introduction by rewriting complex or awkwardly phrased sentences. It identifies areas where your writing may be ambiguous or convoluted and offers alternative phrasing that enhances readability. This feature ensures that your introduction is clear, concise, and compelling.

3.Automatically Expand Content

When you need to elaborate on a point or expand your introduction, WPS AI can automatically generate additional content. This feature helps you add relevant information that aligns with your essay's theme and tone. It’s particularly useful for developing a strong hook, providing context, or setting up your thesis statement.

4.Give an Outline for Your Paper

Writing a strong introduction often involves giving your readers a brief outline of what to expect in your essay. WPS AI can assist in structuring your introduction to include a concise overview of your main points, providing a roadmap for your readers. This feature ensures that your introduction effectively sets the stage for the rest of your essay. Here is an example of an outline generated using WPS AI Writer for an essay:

If you find this outline suitable for your essay, simply scroll down and click on "Insert" to use the outline for your essay.

1. What is the structure of an essay?

An essay is divided into three main parts:

Introduction: This section introduces the topic and presents the main idea (thesis). It provides some background information and outlines what the essay will discuss.

Body: The body forms the essay's core, where you develop arguments to support your thesis. It is organized into several paragraphs, each presenting a distinct point backed by evidence.

Conclusion: The conclusion summarizes the main points covered in the essay and strengthens the thesis statement. It wraps up the discussion and may offer final insights or suggestions.

2. Why do I need a thesis statement?

A thesis statement plays a crucial role in academic essays and research papers by presenting the central argument or idea to be explored and developed. Here are several key reasons why a thesis statement is essential:

It provides clear direction and focus for your writing.

It summarizes your main argument for the reader.

It maintains clarity and coherence throughout the essay.

It serves as the foundational basis for structuring the entire essay.

3. How long should the introduction paragraph be?

The introduction paragraph for a research paper typically spans one to two paragraphs. As a general rule, the entire introduction section—which includes the opening paragraph, literature review, and research questions—should constitute approximately 10% to 15% of the paper's total length. This structure allows for a comprehensive yet concise setup of your research topic, providing readers with the necessary context before delving into the main body of your work.

Beyond the Hook: Building a Strong Introduction Paragraph

Writing an introduction is perhaps the most thought-provoking and critical task in crafting any assignment. With the myriad features offered by WPS Office, you can effortlessly create a phenomenal essay introduction. WPS AI enhances this process with tools that ensure clarity, coherence, and creativity. Whether it's organizing your thoughts or refining your language, WPS Office empowers you to craft introductions that captivate readers from the start. Download WPS Office today and experience firsthand how it transforms your writing process into a seamless and impactful journey.

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• Olympics 2024

Memorable Moments from the 2024 Paris Olympics Closing Ceremony

T he 2024 Paris Summer Olympics ended its 19-day competition on Aug. 11 with a blowout at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, which boasted about 71,500 spectators. 

The first half of the program was made up of acts that paid tribute to the host country and French culture, while the second half was more “Hollywood,” as the next summer Olympics will take place in Los Angeles in 2028 .

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach commended the athletes for their " Seine -sational Games .”

"Your performances were amazing. You competed fiercely against each other. Every contest on the edge of perfection. Every performance sparking excitement around the world. You showed us what greatness we humans are capable of."

Here’s a rundown of the best moments from the 2024 closing ceremony. 

The closing ceremony is the time for France’s best musical acts to shine. Fans went ballistic for Phoenix, the Grammy Award-winning rock band from Versailles, which played hits “Lisztomania,” “If I Ever Feel Better,” and “1901.”

However, professional musicians were not the only singers at the event. art of a section of the closing ceremony called “Athlete Karaoke,” saw the world’s best athletes belting out Queen’s “We Are the Champions” after processing into the stadium.

The dancing

After some 9,000 athletes paraded into the stadium, a dramatic interpretative dance honoring “the power of diversity and solidarity” opened the event. 

Giant rings were rolled out to represent the formation of Olympic rings, and actors were doing handstands inside the giant rings. 

Alain Roche played the piano vertically while suspended in the air.

The Hollywood treatment 

To represent the passing of the torch to the next Summer Olympics host city Los Angeles, Thomas Bach, the head of the International Olympic Committee, handed the Olympic flag to Karen Bass, the first female mayor of Los Angeles. Simone Biles, the most decorated U.S. gymnast ever , was on stage to represent the U.S. for the handoff. Then five-time Grammy Award winner known as “H.E.R.” sang the national anthem.

Cameras switched to Tom Cruise, who was standing on a ledge on top of the stadium. He was lowered down to the stage by cables. He shook hands with Bass and gymnast Simone Biles, who handed the Olympic flag to Cruise, which he attached to the back of a motorcycle and sped off. Footage of Cruise cruising down the streets of Paris and then jumping out of an airplane in a short stunt-filled, pre-filmed montage, played out like an action thriller. He was shown unveiling a version of the Hollywood sign with the two “oo”s before the “d” was replaced with the multicolored Olympic rings.

The flag was transported via skateboard to a stage on a palm tree-lined beach, where Grammy Award winners were on stage to greet the flag. Red Hot Chili Peppers performed “Can’t Stop” and Billie Eilish performed “Birds of a Feather.” Eilish was dressed in an oversized shirt meant to look like the red-white-and-blue Ralph Lauren polo shirts that the U.S. Olympians were wearing. Then Snoop Dogg, in a red-white-and-blue blazer , performed a snippet of “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” and then was joined by Dr. Dre for his hit “The Next Episode.”

The closing ceremony ended with an electrifying rendition of Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” by the French singer Yseult.

Those with Olympic fever won’t have to wait four more years for another Olympics games. The next Olympics will take place in Italy in 2026—all winter sports—and the Olympics return to France in 2030, also winter games. 

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‘The Open Boat’ and ‘To Build a Fire’ Essay

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Introduction

How the two narratives exemplify naturalism, works cited.

Naturalism was an offshoot of determinism and Darwinism. These schools of thought held that man had minimal control over his fate because the environment shaped his life. ‘The Open Boat’ and ‘To Build a Fire’ epitomize this literary movement. Not only do the writers use practical and succinct language that is typical of this school, but they also place greater emphasis on processes over people. This approach was in keeping with their reverence for neutrality.

Naturalists often make conservative use of language in their narrations and these two books are no exception. These authors detached themselves from their characters as well as the human situations. ‘The Open Boat’ describes the four men’s adventures with a great degree of temperance. The author had opportunities to exaggerate their accomplishments as well as their failures, but he did not.

The desperate nature of the characters is consistent with their dreary settings, so every stylistic choice matches developments in the story. One should also note that only one of the characters in the story has a name –Billie. This level of detachment testifies to the realism that naturalists liked. Similarly, the writing in ‘To Build a Fire’ was objective and concise. London stays away from the emotions and insecurities of his protagonist.

Nothing sets him apart as a special individual. In fact, the hard language in the narration and the twists and turns of the story make the man seem like a sideshow. The author’s language is objective and factual. For instance, he talks about the number of matches that the man used and why ice froze on his beard (London 36).

This stylistic choice was in tandem with his naturalist thought. He wanted to furnish the audience with objective information such that they can competently assess the environment. Naturalism also explains why London did not name his central character. Doing so would have detracted readers from the subject matter.

As the name implies, naturalism was a school of thought that focused on nature. It dwelt on ‘what is’ rather than ‘what should be’. Therefore, when pioneers of the intellectual school wrote about something, they gave precedence to the environment rather than the people in them.

For instance in ‘To Build a Fire’, readers can find a lot of information about nature. London talks about springs, creeks, fires, snow and how each of these natural processes can change and affect the elements surrounding them. In the book, one understands the repercussions of exposing one’s cheeks to extremely cold weather.

Likewise, the same description of all things natural can be found in ‘The Open Boat’. Most of the discussions in the piece dwell on how the sea operates; its waves and tides can change dramatically and thus affect those who are standing on its way. At the beginning of the story, the sea seemed like a merciless monster that the men personified.

However, towards the end of the story, they soon realize that the sea is a natural object (Crane 14). It has no intentions and does not inflict deliberate harm. Crane wanted to prove that nature is ‘what is’. Man is the one that gets too preoccupied with what it should be.

Naturalists ascribed to Darwinian and determinist thought. Darwin led the determinist school by demonstrating how evolution occurred. The scholar affirmed that the environment shapes organisms over extremely long periods of time. It caused them to develop different physical characteristics (mutate) from those of organisms within the same species. In subsequent times, groups that had favorable traits survived while the ones with unfavorable ones died.

Determinism proved that man was helpless against his environment. His free will had little to do with what occurred to him (Sorrentino 104). These themes are present in both narrations. In ‘The Open Boat’, the waves are frequently changing; the men have little control over these waves even after spending a substantial amount of time at sea. Man can do little to change the forces of nature. Therefore, he must accept this condition and only focus on reacting to what nature presents.

Naturalists believed in the insignificance of free will. Likewise, the author of ‘To Build a Fire’, wanted to show how even intellectualism could not save many from nature. The man had a map and was set on hunting for gold. However, he later had to abandon these ambitions because of the harsh weather.

The dog had a higher chance of survival than the man because it understood its place in the natural world. It reacted to its environment and thus outlived the man. However, the protagonist did not respect the power of the natural world and thus subjected himself to danger. The deterministic environment altered his goals and thus triumphed over his free will.

Many naturalists acknowledge the determinism of the environment, but they do not believe in its divinity. Nature was neither against or for man; it was simply present. Therefore, one should not expect moral judgment from nature as this will not materialize (Bender 92).

London does not blame the man for the fall in the snow, and neither does he blame the snow. If one must ascribe moral responsibility on a party, then it should be placed on man since he can predict the consequences of his actions. Nature is also indifferent to man in ‘The Open Boat’.

The men initially blame the sea for their predicaments. In one occasion, they claim that the sea is hissing and snarling. However, the narrator later learns that nature was not against them when one large wave carries him to shore. One can thus deduce that nature is not a partisan party if it can rescue and cause harm at the same time.

Adherents of the naturalism movement favored members of the lower classes. Alternatively, their characters became classless in the wake of environmental forces. In ‘To Build a Fire’, the protagonist is probably one such character because he leaves his home for a dangerous expedition, in hostile weather, so as to hunt for gold (London 8). Conversely ‘Open Boat’ has an oiler, a correspondent, a cook as well as a captain. None of these titles matter in the grueling and unpredictable sea; all that counts is their survival.

Naturalists strongly espoused neutrality. This is evident in their succinct and factual language as well as their focus on plot rather than the people in their narrations. The authors under analysis show that man’s free will is irrelevant, and even his intellectualism cannot fight nature. Conversely, London and Crane acknowledge the impartiality of nature and its inability to wield moral judgment over man.

Bender, Bert. Sea-Brothers: The Tradition of American Sea Fiction from Moby-Dick to the Present. Philadelphia: University of Pennsylvania Press, 1990. Print.

Crane, Stephen. 2011. The open boat and other tales of adventure . Web.

London, Jack. 2012. To build a fire . Web.

Sorrentino, Paul. Stephen Crane Remembered . Tuscaloosa: University of Alabama Press, 2006. Print.

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IvyPanda. (2019, April 14). ‘The Open Boat’ and ‘To Build a Fire’. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-open-boat-and-to-build-a-fire/

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IvyPanda . 2019. "‘The Open Boat’ and ‘To Build a Fire’." April 14, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-open-boat-and-to-build-a-fire/.

1. IvyPanda . "‘The Open Boat’ and ‘To Build a Fire’." April 14, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-open-boat-and-to-build-a-fire/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "‘The Open Boat’ and ‘To Build a Fire’." April 14, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-open-boat-and-to-build-a-fire/.

How to protect your home from wildfires – advice from fire prevention experts on creating defensible space

Graduate Student Researcher, Fire Center, University of Montana

Post-doctoral Researcher, Fire Center, University of Montana

Disclosure statement

Bryce Young receives funding from University of Montana. He also works for Pyrologix and Vibrant Planet.

Christopher Moran also works for Pyrologix, a wildfire threat assessment research firm, and Vibrant Planet.

University of Montana provides funding as a member of The Conversation US.

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Extreme heat has already made 2024 a busy wildfire year. More acres had burned by mid-July than in all of 2023 , and several communities had lost homes to wildfires .

As fire season intensifies across the West, there are steps homeowners can take to make their homes less vulnerable to burning and increase the likelihood that firefighters can protect their property in the event of a wildfire .

We research wildfire risk to homes and communities. Here’s what decades of research suggest homeowners in high-fire-risk areas can do to protect their properties.

Small improvements make big differences

A structure’s flammability depends on both the materials that were used to build it and the design of the building. In general, the vulnerability of a house is determined by its weakest point.

The roof, windows, siding and vents are all vulnerable points to pay attention to.

Roof: The roof provides a landing pad where airborne embers can accumulate like snowflakes. Roofs with lots of valleys can collect pine needles and leaves, which can be ignited by flying embers. This is why it’s important for the roof itself to be made of Class A non-flammable material like clay tiles or asphalt shingles, and why roof maintenance, including cleaning gutters, is important . Embers can easily find their way under peeling shingles, through gaps of clay tiles , or into gutters where pine needles and leaves can accumulate.

Windows: If windows are exposed to heat, they can shatter and allow fire inside the home, where curtains can easily ignite. Even double-paned windows can be shattered by the heat of a burning shed 30 feet away, unless the window glass is tempered, making it stronger. Fire-resistant shutters made of metal, if closed before a fire arrives, can offer additional protection.

Siding: Materials like stucco are non-flammable, while cedar shake siding will burn. Your exterior siding should be non-flammable, but the siding is only as strong as its weakest point. If there are holes in the siding, plug them with caulk to prevent embers from reaching the wooden frame in your walls. Ideally, there will be a 6- to 12-inch concrete foundation between the ground and the bottom of your siding material.

Vents: Reducing risk from vents is easy and affordable and can drastically reduce the flammability of your home. Make sure that one-eighth inch or finer metal mesh is installed over all vents to keep embers out of your attic and your home’s interior.

Controlling your home ignition zone

A home’s vulnerability also depends on the area around it, referred to as the home ignition zone .

The risk in your home ignition zone depends on things such as the slope of your land and the ecosystem surrounding your home. Here are a few guidelines the National Fire Protection Association recommends, both to reduce the chance of flames reaching your home and make it easier for firefighters to defend it.

Zone 1 – Within 5 feet

From the home’s exterior to 5 feet away, you want to prevent flames from coming in contact with windows, siding, vents and eaves. The gold standard is to have only non-flammable material in Zone 1 .

The most common risks are having flammable mulch, plants, firewood, lawn furniture, decks and fences. These items have been a primary reason homes burned in many wildfires, including the 2018 Camp Fire that destroyed much of Paradise, California, and the 2012 Waldo Canyon Fire near Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Replacing mulch with gravel or pavers and having only short, sparse plants that don’t touch the house can help reduce the risk.

Wooden decks and fences can burn even if they are well-maintained. Replacing them with non-flammable materials or installing a thin sheet of metal on the house where the siding touches a wooden deck or fence can help protect the home. Mesh screens can prevent the accumulation of debris and embers under the deck.

Zone 2 – 5 to 30 feet away

In the next ring, between 5 and 30 feet from the home, the lawn should be green and short. This is Zone 2.

Be sure to rake up pine needles and leaves and take care to prune the lowest tree branches at least 6 feet high.

There should be about 18 feet of space between trees on a flat slope, and the spacing should increase with slope because steeper terrain drives faster, more intense fires. Walks, pathways, patios, decks and firewood can be kept in this zone.

Zone 3 – 30 to 100 feet away

Beyond Zone 2 and out to about 100 feet from the home is Zone 3. In this area, be sure to give sheds and propane tanks their own defensible space, just like around the house, and prune all low branches to 6 feet.

You can contact your local emergency management office or community wildfire nonprofit to learn more about grant funding that can offset the costs of pruning and removing trees on a forested property.

Beyond 100 feet may extend past your property boundary, but the adjacent house can still be fuel for a wildfire. That’s why it’s smart to plan with your neighbors as you’re reinforcing your own home. Once one house catches fire, house-to-house fire spread is facilitated by closer distances between buildings .

Be prepared

While most U.S. government spending aims to mitigate wildfire hazard on national forests, it is up to residents and communities themselves to reduce their vulnerability to a wildfire disaster.

Following the guidelines required by your community or state and those outlined above can help. Communities can also take steps to reduce fire risk and make fires easier to control by developing a community wildfire protection plan , exploring their wildfire risk , and adopting wildfire-specific building codes .

As the nation rolls into fire season , make sure your property is prepared . And when the call to evacuate comes, know where to go and get the heck out.

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Trump and Allies Forge Plans to Increase Presidential Power in 2025

The former president and his backers aim to strengthen the power of the White House and limit the independence of federal agencies.

Donald J. Trump intends to bring independent regulatory agencies under direct presidential control. Credit... Doug Mills/The New York Times

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By Jonathan Swan Charlie Savage and Maggie Haberman

• Published July 17, 2023 Updated July 18, 2023

Donald J. Trump and his allies are planning a sweeping expansion of presidential power over the machinery of government if voters return him to the White House in 2025, reshaping the structure of the executive branch to concentrate far greater authority directly in his hands.

Their plans to centralize more power in the Oval Office stretch far beyond the former president’s recent remarks that he would order a criminal investigation into his political rival, President Biden, signaling his intent to end the post-Watergate norm of Justice Department independence from White House political control.

Mr. Trump and his associates have a broader goal: to alter the balance of power by increasing the president’s authority over every part of the federal government that now operates, by either law or tradition, with any measure of independence from political interference by the White House, according to a review of his campaign policy proposals and interviews with people close to him.

Mr. Trump intends to bring independent agencies — like the Federal Communications Commission, which makes and enforces rules for television and internet companies, and the Federal Trade Commission, which enforces various antitrust and other consumer protection rules against businesses — under direct presidential control.

He wants to revive the practice of “impounding” funds, refusing to spend money Congress has appropriated for programs a president doesn’t like — a tactic that lawmakers banned under President Richard Nixon.

He intends to strip employment protections from tens of thousands of career civil servants, making it easier to replace them if they are deemed obstacles to his agenda. And he plans to scour the intelligence agencies, the State Department and the defense bureaucracies to remove officials he has vilified as “the sick political class that hates our country.”

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