Johnny answers “What are the differences between the 1902...”

Johnny asked this question about To Build a Fire:

What are the differences between the 1902 and the 1908 versions, and how can you tell them apart?

Johnny There are a few differences, with the 1908 version being the more popular and darker of the two.

If the edition you're reading identifies the man by th…moreThere are a few differences, with the 1908 version being the more popular and darker of the two.

If the edition you're reading identifies the man by the name of Tom Vincent and there's no dog, it's the 1902 version. If he's nameless and there's a dog, it's the 1908 edition.

Besides that, the differences are (with spoilers):

— 1902 Edition —
- Man is named Tom Vincent, and a light back story is given.
- There's no dog.
- The man finds an uninhabited hunter's lodge.
- A brief description of liquid water in freezing temperatures.
- No old-timer who advised against traveling alone.
- The man survives.
— 1908 Edition —
- Man is nameless.
- There's a dog.
- The man dies.
- The story has a slightly darker tone.(less)

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