Instructions:

Question

Choose ONE of the projects from the Choice Board below these instructions.
Your project should be based on at least ONE of the following themes from The Call of the Wild:
Only the Strongest Survive: The novel showcases the principle of survival of the fittest, where only the strongest and most adaptable individuals thrive in the harsh environment. Buck's journey is a testament to his ability to adapt and survive.
Nature is a Powerful Force: The wilderness is portrayed as a powerful force that can shape and transform individuals. Buck's experience in the Yukon reveals the raw power and beauty of nature.
The Quest for Freedom is a Long Journey: Buck's journey is a quest for freedom, both physical and spiritual. He yearns to break free from the constraints of domestication and embrace his wild nature.
Choice #1 Theme Song-
Project:
Choose a theme song for a character from the novel.
Include the title, artist, & lyrics of the song.
Your song should address the character’s style, personality, actions, motives, and values.
Analysis:
Write a 1-2 paragraph analysis of the song explaining HOW the song represents the character. Use textual evidence (examples) from the song lyrics.
In your analysis, explain HOW the character’s theme song ties in with one of the themes from the novel. (See theme descriptions in the assignment instructions above.)
*A paragraph is 4-5 sentences. It must include a clear topic sentence and an explanation of how your song connects to the character.
Choice #2 Original Poem or Song-
Project:
Compose an original poem or song in response to the novel.
Analysis:
Write a 1-2 paragraph analysis of your song explaining the connection of the poem/song to the story and/or characters.
In your analysis, explain HOW your song ties in with one of the themes from the novel. (See theme descriptions in the assignment instructions above.)
*A paragraph is 4-5 sentences. It must include a clear topic sentence and an explanation of how your poem or song connects to the text.
Choice #3 Artwork-
Project:
Create a piece of artwork that represents a character or a scene from the novel.
Analysis:
Write a 1-2 paragraph analysis of your artwork explaining its connection to the story and/or characters.
In your analysis, explain HOW your artwork ties in with one of the themes from the novel. (See theme descriptions in the assignment instructions above.)
*A paragraph is 4-5 sentences. It must include a clear topic sentence and an explanation of how your artwork connects to the text.
Choice #4 Interview-
Project:
Interview a character from the novel.
This interview should have at least 5 questions and 5 responses (at least 2-3 sentences per response.)
You may record this like a television interview OR type out a written transcript of the interview.
Remember that this should be based on the literature, but you may be creative!
Analysis:
Write a 1-2 paragraph analysis at the end of your interview explaining HOW the topics covered in the interview tie in with one of the themes from the novel. (See theme descriptions in the assignment instructions above.)

Answer 1

Choice #1 Theme Song Project

Theme Song: "Born to Run" by Bruce Springsteen

Lyrics Excerpt: In the day we sweated out on the streets of a runaway American dream,
At night we ride through towns on a hot summer's day.
The map is not clear, but I know we're going somewhere,
Oh honey, I want to be with you,
In the glory of the night.

Analysis: The song "Born to Run" by Bruce Springsteen perfectly encapsulates the character of Buck, the central figure in Jack London’s The Call of the Wild. The themes of yearning for freedom and the restless pursuit of a more profound existence resonate strongly with Buck's journey as he transitions from a domesticated pet to a fierce creature of the wild. The line "We're gonna get out of this place" reflects Buck’s desperation to escape the constraints of his former life and venture into the untamed wilderness, where he can tap into his primal instincts. This mirrors Buck's transformation throughout the novel, as he sheds his domestication and learns to embrace survival in nature. The essence of "Only the Strongest Survive" is evident in both the song and Buck’s experiences; he evolves to become a leader, a symbol of strength and resilience amid life-and-death challenges.

Ultimately, Springsteen’s anthem of escape parallels Buck’s quest for a life defined by freedom and authenticity. Just as the song portrays a yearning for liberation from societal constraints, Buck embodies the struggle to break free from the limitations imposed upon him, both as a pet and as a creature in a brutal, unforgiving wilderness. Throughout his journey, Buck becomes a symbol of the relentless spirit that not only seeks survival but also embraces the beauty and terror of the natural world.