The Open Boat

Question:

Answers:

1. 
   jeff-hauge Teacher
   High School - 11th Grade

   Best answer as selected by question asker.

   The correspondent does note that although he and the others are facing death, he feels closer to them than any others in his life. Crane was a naturalist. Naturalism views humanity in the same terms that scientists viewed other animals; in objective observational fashion. The close bond formed among the men is dependent upon the threat that surrounds them all. They create a symbiotic balance. Like the laborers in anthill are aware that if they devote themselves to the good of the community, ultimately their needs are served. These men realize the same thing in a deep, tacit way that is beyond conscious thought. What is good for the group in the boat, saves the individuals in the boat as well.

   Sources:

   http://www.enotes.com/open-boat/themes

   Rate answer:

    

   • Flag as inappropriate

   Posted by jeff-hauge on Wednesday September 10, 2008 at 10:23 AM
   
   

You can now ask questions directly from Facebook, add the Ask a Teacher App from eNotes!