Final answer:
The man in 'To Build a Fire' struggles with the additional problem of frostbite and potential loss of toes after his fire is extinguished by falling snow from the tree under which he built it.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the story To Build a Fire by Jack London, the man faces the additional problem of the potential loss of his toes due to frostbite after failing to successfully maintain a fire in extremely cold conditions. Initially, the man had built a fire, but an oversight leads to disaster. By situating the fire beneath a spruce tree heavy with snow, he inadvertently causes the snow to douse the fire when he disturbs the tree. Faced with the critical necessity of warming himself, especially as his feet are wet and at serious risk of freezing, he attempts to light another fire. However, his numbing fingers and the harsh conditions thwart his efforts. The story encapsulates themes of man versus nature, the importance of heeding advice, and the harsh reality of the Yukon environment.