What does the call of the wild represent for Buck?

The call of the wild represents a deep and transformative journey for Buck, encapsulating his return to his instincts and heritage. Throughout the story, Buck evolves from a domesticated pet into a creature driven by primal instincts, reconnecting with his ancestral lineage as a wolf. This return to the wild signifies not only a physical transition but also an awakening of his inherent abilities and instincts that had been suppressed during his life in civilization.

As Buck experiences the rawness and challenges of the wilderness, he embraces his true nature, asserting his strength and leadership in a way that reflects the unrefined beauty of the natural world. This connection to his heritage allows him to thrive in the wild, further illustrating the theme of survival and the importance of instinct over learned behaviors from his previous life. Thus, the call of the wild embodies Buck's journey towards self-discovery and realization of his identity beyond civilization's constraints.