In Jack London's novel, The Call of the Wild, Buck demonstrates his impressive instincts when he is forced to adapt to the brutal realities of life in the Yukon. One notable example occurs when Buck encounters a pack of wolves. Rather than merely viewing them as threats, he taps into his ancestral instincts and finds common ground with them. Instead of running away or engaging in a futile fight, Buck observes their behavior and learns from their social dynamics, eventually earning their respect. This moment signifies a turning point in Buck’s journey, as he begins to embrace his wild nature and learn the importance of collaboration and communication in survival, which proves essential as he continues to face the challenges of the harsh environment.
When comparing Buck to a modern-day superhero, it is evident that his intelligence, much like that of Spider-Man, stands out as his most vital characteristic for survival. Spider-Man uses his quick thinking and problem-solving skills to navigate dangerous situations and protect those in need, similar to how Buck applies his intelligence to understand the world around him. While Buck's physical strength is notable—akin to the brute force of supervillains being defeated by a hero—it is his ability to strategize and adapt that ensures his survival. For instance, if Buck were faced with a group of flying monkeys, he would likely analyze their weaknesses and devise a plan to either avoid confrontation or outsmart them, much like Spider-Man would outmaneuver his enemies. Ultimately, Buck's intelligence allows him to thrive in a world where instinct alone may not be sufficient for survival.