Jack London’s work vividly captures the essence of Social Darwinism intertwined with empathy for the working class, particularly evident in the narrative of Tom King. As a prizefighter, Tom embodies the "survival of the fittest." His career is a testament to human strength, endurance, and cunning, themes central to the Social Darwinist ideology. During his prime, Tom thrived in a brutal system that rewarded physical prowess and strategy, often leaving his opponents defeated and emotionally shattered in the dressing room.

Yet, this once-celebrated champion, with his imposing physique still commanding respect, faces the inevitable decline brought on by age. No longer at the zenith of his physical capabilities, Tom now experiences the harsh reality of the very survival mechanism that once propelled him to greatness. In his youth, he might have viewed those vanquished with little pity, but as time weaves its inevitable tapestry, Tom finds himself on the receiving end of life's unforgiving cycle—a testament to the relentless "law of the jungle." This poignant reflection not only underscores the merciless nature of Social Darwinism but also evokes a deep empathy for those like Tom, who endure the harsh realities of a system that once celebrated their strength and now discards them in its relentless march forward.

Tom King, a professional fighter, embodies a complex blend of resilience and vulnerability. While his career in prizefighting is undeniably brutal, Tom himself emerges as an inherently sympathetic figure. His love for the sport is genuine, yet it is his unwavering commitment to his family that reveals his true depth. As a father and husband, Tom is acutely aware of the precarious situation his family faces, a reality that propels him into the ring against the younger, more formidable opponent, Sandel. With fighting as his sole skill, Tom finds himself ensnared by his circumstances—forced into the ring by necessity rather than choice—and yet, despite his predicament, he refrains from succumbing to self-pity. Instead, the profound weight of his perceived failure toward his family manifests in his tears, painting a picture of heartbreak and resolve.

The narrative, imbued with a somber sense of determinism, reflects Jack London's broader meditation on the plight of the working class. Having grown up in a similar milieu, London was intimately familiar with the harsh realities of poverty and the formidable barriers to escaping it. His own journey from these humble beginnings serves as a testament to the latent strength that lies within individuals like the aging Tom King. Despite Tom's relentless spirit, the very system that once elevated him has now laid him low, threatening to drag his family into ruin. Yet, London's story subtly integrates this political commentary without overshadowing the personal struggle of Tom, who stands as a poignant symbol of both the resilience and the tragic limitations inherent to the working class.