Answer:
In paragraphs 26 through 29, the details contribute to London's message about the harsh and unforgiving nature of the extreme cold in the wilderness. These paragraphs emphasize the immediate and life-threatening challenges that the protagonist faces when trying to build a fire in the extreme cold. Here's how the details contribute to this message:
Desperation and Urgency: The protagonist's anger and cursing in paragraph 26 highlight the desperation of his situation. He had hoped to reach camp early, but the cold and wetness have forced him to stop and build a fire. This shows how nature can be merciless and unforgiving, not caring about human plans or comfort.
Struggle for Survival: The process of building the fire described in paragraph 27 and 28 shows the protagonist's desperate struggle for survival. The extreme cold is portrayed as a formidable adversary, and his actions reflect the battle for warmth and life itself. The details of starting the fire and the caution he exercises underscore the life-and-death nature of the situation.
Knowledge and Consequences: Paragraph 29 emphasizes the consequences of making mistakes in such harsh conditions. The protagonist knows that failure is not an option when it is 75 degrees below zero, and the descriptions of how quickly the cold affects him, freezing his feet and numbing his fingers, underscore the seriousness of his situation. It also highlights the importance of knowledge and preparation when dealing with the forces of nature.