The Call of the Wild Competition Quotes

How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #1

[…] in the bitter hatred between him and Spitz he betrayed no impatience, shunned all offensive acts. (3.1)

Buck initially subdues his competitive nature.

Quote #2

On the other hand, possibly because he divined in Buck a dangerous rival, Spitz never lost an opportunity of showing his teeth. He even went out of his way to bully Buck, striving constantly to start the fight which could end only in the death of one or the other. (3.2)

Buck is recognized as a rival because of his physical and mental prowess.

Quote #3

Spitz was equally willing. He was crying with sheer rage and eagerness as he circled back and forth for a chance to spring in. Buck was no less eager, and no less cautious, as he likewise circled back and forth for the advantage. (3.4)

Buck and Spitz are in some ways similar—they both approach the fight the same way.