In To Build a Fire How does Jack London refrain for so long from mentioning the dog?

Answer 1

Jack London probably refrained from mentioning the dog to add tension to the plot. The introduction of the dog introduced a completely new dynamic to the story.

Answer 2

Jack London refrains from mentioning the dog until later in the story to establish a sense of isolation and vulnerability for the man. By focusing solely on the man's struggle against nature, London emphasizes the harsh and unforgiving environment of the Yukon. The delayed introduction of the dog serves to highlight the contrast between the man's arrogance and the dog's survival instincts, setting up a central theme of the story.