Comparison of the two versions of Building a Fire “I am absolutely convinced that beyond the motif itself, there is no similarity in treatment” ( 544). Jack London, writing in December 1908, was responding to a request from Richard W. Gilder, editor of Century Magazine. Gilder, who has just published "To Build a Fire" in his magazine, is worried when he comes across another version published 6 years earlier. London's explanation was that the first story was intended for boys and the new one for men; the only similarity being the pattern itself. Through careful analysis of the two stories, in light of this letter to Gilder and another letter to Cloudesly Johns, it becomes clear that, although London claims no similarity (apart from motif), they do exist. GOOD. Before discussing the similarities, it is necessary to examine the obvious differences which, according to London, lie in the "treatment" (544). The 1902 version was released for boys, while the 1908 version was released for men. London explains that the motive was "not only very strong, but also very true" (ibid.). It seems that he first published it for boys as a sort of educational story; raise awareness among young people about the dangers of the cold. Therefore, after Tom Vincent learns his lesson, he arrives at the camp and does not suffer any serious damage. Later, London expressed concern that he had given the motif "inadequate treatment" (ibid.). So he repeated the motif, this time for men, adding a dog for good measure. Since this story was aimed at an older audience, topics could be brought up that were not appropriate to discuss in the premiere: The man considered killing the dog and using its body for warmth. Plus, the most obvious story... middle of the paper they read. Jack London wrote a classic short story in the 1908 version of “To Build a Fire.” It's the classic story of man fighting nature. In most genres (e.g. films, novels, short stories), the main character comes out on top, no matter how improbable. Jack London takes literary naturalism and shows the reader how unforgiving nature is. Just like Stephen Crane in "The Open Boat", in which one of the characters dies, London does not subscribe to the idea that "there has to be a good ending". Through the analysis of two letters from London (to RW Gilder and Cloudesly Johns), these two versions of "To Build a Fire" come to life with new meaning. Although there are many differences on the surface, both stories use his philosophy as expressed to Johns and both teach a moral lesson that will not soon be forgotten: "Never travel alone.."