What does the journey into the wilderness ultimately represent for Buck?

The journey into the wilderness serves as a powerful symbol of Buck's transformation towards his true nature. Initially a domesticated pet in a civilized environment, Buck gradually sheds the layers of civilization and reveals his innate instincts and primal identity. As he faces the challenges of the wild—such as survival, competition, and the call of the wild—he reconnects with his ancestry and instincts that lie beneath his surface.

This transformation is not simply a physical adaptation but an awakening of his inner self, showcasing the theme of nature versus nurture. Buck's evolution is marked by his increasing strength, independence, and instinctual behaviors as he responds to the realities of the wilderness. This journey ultimately leads him to embrace his role as a wild creature, marking a return to a state of existence where he is more attuned to his instincts and true nature, which has been suppressed in his domesticated life.