Question

Read the passage from Part 1 of “To Build a Fire.”

The dog did not want to go. It hung back until the man shoved it forward, and then it went quickly across the white, unbroken surface. Suddenly it broke through, floundered to one side, and got away to firmer footing. It had wet its forefeet and legs, and almost immediately the water that clung to it turned to ice.

How does this setting detail advance the plot?



1 It introduces dangers that are not visible.
2 It establishes the man’s concern for the dog.
3 It illustrates the availability of natural resources.
4 It proves the impossibility of traveling alone.

Answer 1

the answer is number 1 

Answer 2

Answer: 1. It introduces dangers that are not visible.

Explanation: In this passage from Part 1 of "To Build a Fire" by Jack London, this setting detail advances the plot because it introduces dangers that are not visible. The protagonist is traveling the Yukon to find gold. He has to meet his friends at six. In spite of not knowing anything about the place and the effects of the cold weather and thick snow, he sees no danger ahead. The dog does not want to continue but is forced to do so. The icy cover of the river breaks when it passes. This detail shows that there are dangers that are not visible for the man.