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Similes
Part 2, Chapter 4
Explanation and Analysis:
The style of White Fang is straightforward and realistic. The sentences are short and to the point, focusing primarily on action and physical sensations. This short and to-the-point style mimics the psychology of White Fang himself, who, as a wolf, is not so much thinking logically about the things he does or feels (as a human might), but rather is following his instincts and acting to satisfy basic, immediate needs like food, sleep, and shelter.
In Part 2, Chapter 4, when White Fang leaves the cave he was born in for the first time, London describes him as feeling emotions and using very basic reasoning. London conveys these thoughts in emotions in simple, straightforward language, mimicking White Fang’s simple perception of the world:
A great fear came upon him. [Outside] was more of the terrible unknown. He crouched down on the lip of the cave and gazed out on the world. He was very much afraid. Because it was unknown, it was hostile to him. Therefore the hair stood up on end along his back and his lips wrinkled weakly in an attempt at a ferocious and intimidating snarl […] Nothing happened. He continued to gaze, and in his interest he forgot to snarl. Also, he forgot to be afraid.
Part 3, Chapter 4
Explanation and Analysis:
The style of White Fang is straightforward and realistic. The sentences are short and to the point, focusing primarily on action and physical sensations. This short and to-the-point style mimics the psychology of White Fang himself, who, as a wolf, is not so much thinking logically about the things he does or feels (as a human might), but rather is following his instincts and acting to satisfy basic, immediate needs like food, sleep, and shelter.
In Part 2, Chapter 4, when White Fang leaves the cave he was born in for the first time, London describes him as feeling emotions and using very basic reasoning. London conveys these thoughts in emotions in simple, straightforward language, mimicking White Fang’s simple perception of the world:
Unlock with LitCharts A+A great fear came upon him. [Outside] was more of the terrible unknown. He crouched down on the lip of the cave and gazed out on the world. He was very much afraid. Because it was unknown, it was hostile to him. Therefore the hair stood up on end along his back and his lips wrinkled weakly in an attempt at a ferocious and intimidating snarl […] Nothing happened. He continued to gaze, and in his interest he forgot to snarl. Also, he forgot to be afraid.
