In the final chapters of The Call of the Wild by Jack London, Buck, the protagonist, fully embraces his wild instincts. After enduring numerous hardships and ultimately losing his beloved human companion, John Thornton, Buck answers the call of the wild that has been beckoning him throughout the story.
The climax occurs when Buck encounters a pack of wolves. He has already demonstrated his leadership qualities and innate survival skills, but it’s in this moment that he truly understands his place in the wild. He joins the pack, becoming a part of their world, and his transformation from a domesticated pet to a wild creature is complete.
In the closing lines, Buck’s connection to the wilderness is solidified as he follows the call of the wild and runs with the wolves. The final scene is poignant, capturing the essence of freedom and the return to one’s roots. The last few words highlight Buck’s triumph as he becomes a legendary figure in the wild, celebrated by the wolves and feared by his former human counterparts. This ending emphasizes the themes of survival and the inherent pull of nature, showcasing London’s view of the wild as both a place of beauty and raw reality.