A Story of Survival and Change

Introduction

White Fang is a famous story written by Jack London. It tells the exciting and sometimes sad story of a wolf-dog named White Fang. The book was adapted by John Escott for the Oxford Dominoes series, making it easier to read for English learners. In this article, we will explore the main themes, characters, and lessons from White Fang.

The Harsh Life in the North

The story is set in the frozen lands of Canada, where survival is very difficult. Both animals and people must fight to stay alive. Food is hard to find, and the cold is dangerous. White Fang, a wolf-dog, is born in this wild world. He quickly learns that life is full of dangers. Many animals die because they cannot find food or because they are killed by stronger animals.

Meeting People: First the Indians

White Fang’s life changes when he meets a group of Native Americans. They take him and his mother into their village. At first, White Fang is afraid of the people, but he soon learns to live with them. One man, Gray Beaver, becomes White Fang’s owner. He is not cruel, but he is not very kind either. White Fang learns to obey him because he has no other choice. He also has to fight other dogs in the village to survive.

Life with White Men

Later, a cruel man named Beauty Smith buys White Fang. Beauty Smith forces White Fang to fight other dogs for entertainment. White Fang becomes very strong and fierce because he must fight to survive. His life is full of pain and fear.

One day, a kind man named Weedon Scott rescues White Fang from a terrible dog fight. Scott is very different from White Fang’s previous owners. He does not hurt White Fang but instead treats him with kindness and patience. White Fang does not understand kindness at first, but over time, he learns to trust Scott.

The Theme of Change

One of the most important themes in White Fang is change. White Fang starts as a wild animal that must fight to survive. He learns to live with humans, but he also suffers because of them. In the end, he changes again when he finds a kind owner. His journey shows that even in a hard world, love and kindness can make a difference.

Lessons from White Fang

This story teaches us many important lessons:

• Survival and Strength: Life is not easy, but we must be strong and smart to survive.
• Trust and Kindness: Even a wild animal like White Fang can learn to love and trust when treated with kindness.
• The Power of Change: People and animals can change if they are given a chance.

Conclusion

White Fang is a powerful story about survival, cruelty, and kindness. It shows how life can be difficult but also how love and care can change someone’s future. The Oxford Dominoes adaptation by John Escott makes it easier for English learners to enjoy this classic tale. If you like adventure and stories about animals, White Fang is a great book to read!

Jack London American novelist, journalist and activist. 

The Master of Adventure and the Wild Frontier

The Life of Jack London: A Story as Wild as His Tales

Jack London, one of America’s most celebrated authors, was born John Griffith Chaney on January 12, 1876, in San Francisco, California. His life was as adventurous as the stories he penned. From a young age, London was drawn to the sea, adventure, and the unknown, working various jobs as a laborer, oyster pirate, and sailor before dedicating himself to writing. His early experiences profoundly influenced his works, which often depict survival, the human spirit, and the raw power of nature.

Despite growing up in poverty, London had a voracious appetite for reading and self-education. He was largely self-taught and gained admission to the University of California, Berkeley, but financial difficulties forced him to drop out. However, his determination to succeed as a writer never wavered. By the early 1900s, London had cemented his reputation as a literary giant, becoming one of the first American writers to achieve worldwide fame and financial success purely through writing.

Jack London's Major Works: Stories of Survival and Strength

Jack London’s literary works are renowned for their gripping adventure, deep philosophical themes, and vivid depiction of the harsh realities of life. Some of his most notable books include:

The Call of the Wild (1903)

Perhaps London’s most famous work, The Call of the Wild tells the story of Buck, a domesticated dog who is stolen and sold into the brutal world of sled-dog racing in the Yukon during the Klondike Gold Rush. As Buck adapts to his new life in the wilderness, he gradually reverts to his primal instincts, ultimately answering the "call of the wild." This novel is a powerful exploration of survival, resilience, and the inherent call of nature.

White Fang (1906)

A companion to The Call of the Wild, White Fang follows the journey of a wild wolf-dog hybrid that is domesticated by humans. In contrast to Buck’s journey from civilization to the wild, White Fang moves from the brutality of the wild into human companionship. The novel explores themes of nature versus nurture, violence, and redemption, making it one of London’s most profound works.

Martin Eden (1909)

This semi-autobiographical novel follows Martin Eden, a struggling writer who aspires to rise above his working-class background to gain intellectual and financial success. The novel is a deeply personal reflection of London’s own experiences as a self-made writer and explores themes of individualism, ambition, and the cost of success.

The Sea-Wolf (1904)

Inspired by London’s own experiences at sea, The Sea-Wolf tells the story of Humphrey van Weyden, a literary critic who becomes a captive aboard a seal-hunting ship under the command of the ruthless Captain Wolf Larsen. This novel is a philosophical battle between materialism and idealism, strength and intellect, making it one of London’s most thought-provoking works.

Themes and Literary Influence

London’s works often revolved around themes of survival, nature’s unforgiving power, and the struggle between civilization and primal instincts. His experiences in the Klondike Gold Rush, time spent as a sailor, and socialist beliefs all played crucial roles in shaping his literary voice. His writing was heavily influenced by Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, Friedrich Nietzsche’s philosophy, and Herbert Spencer’s ideas of "survival of the fittest."

His legacy extends beyond literature. London was also a journalist and war correspondent, covering events such as the Russo-Japanese War. His commitment to socialism and his critique of capitalism appeared in many of his works, particularly in The Iron Heel (1908), which is considered one of the earliest dystopian novels.

Jack London’s Legacy

Jack London died young, at the age of 40, on November 22, 1916, but his influence on American literature and adventure writing endures. His books have been translated into multiple languages, adapted into films, and continue to captivate readers of all ages. He remains a literary icon, admired for his bold storytelling, compelling characters, and ability to transport readers into the heart of adventure.

From the wild landscapes of Alaska to the turbulent seas and philosophical struggles of man, London’s stories continue to inspire generations. His life, marked by relentless ambition and a deep love for the untamed world, mirrors the very essence of his writings—adventurous, raw, and unforgettable.