Jack London 1876 1916 John Griffith London 1876

Jack London 1876 -1916

• John Griffith London (1876 -1916) – born in San Francisco – unmarried mother of wealthy background • Father may have been William Chaney, an astrologer • Because Flora was ill, Jack was raised through infancy by an ex-slave, Virginia Prentiss • Late in 1876, Flora married John London, a partially disabled Civil War veteran

• Adopted the name of Jack • Spending the winter of 1897 in the Yukon • Grew up in harsh poverty provided the metaphorical in the slums of San gold for his first stories. Francisco • London's great love • Survived on his wits and became agriculture, and physical strength he often stated he wrote • Became an avid reader to support his Beauty • Developed an appetite for Ranch in Glen Ellen, learning California • Got into college

Jack London on a water wagon at the ranch

• London's first marriage • Often troubled by physical (1900) was to Bess ailments, during his Maddern, with whom he thirties London developed had two daughters, Joan kidney disease of and Bess. In 1905 he unknown origin. He died married his "Mate of renal failure on Woman, " Charmain, who November 22, became the persona for 1916 on the many of his female characters and who avidly ranch. joined him on his many travel ventures.

Portrait of Jack and Charmain London in South Seas, 1908

Jack London on board ship

Jack London in “The Klondike”

The “Snark” Hilo Harbor, Hawaii

Jack London and horse at Beauty Ranch, Glen Ellen a few weeks before the author’s death

Answer these: What is the best way to succeed in a feat that takes extraordinary courage and determination? What are some potential mistakes?

To Build a Fire by Jack London Think of examples or interpretations for the following themes…

Themes… Confidence without knowledge and skill is based on foolishness.

A person must be aware of both the things in life and their meaning.

The forces of nature can easily overpower the frail human body.

A person’s imagination is vital to his or her survival.

Animal instinct can be superior to human instinct.

Setting the Stage dog, hot drink, gun, face protector, axe, heavy blanket, signal flare, matchbook, warm food extra pair of mittens, extra pair of socks How would you fare facing freezing cold weather with only these things for survival?

Setting of the story