Experiencing the aftermath of being stranded on an island with no civilization is an incomprehensible situation for a group of children. William Golding effectively portrays the terrifying nature of this scenario in his novel, Lord Of The Flies, by utilizing symbols to depict the challenges they face. Two prominent symbols, the fire and the conch, represent leadership and confidence respectively.
Ralph, who is determined to create a better environment and lead everyone home, demonstrates his authority and ability to enforce his opinions. He interrupts the conversation by saying “Shut up,” while absent-mindedly lifting up the conch. He suggests that they should have a chief to make decisions. Despite his demanding nature, Ralph gains respect and receives a confident response from the others. He smiles and raises the conch to signal silence. The conch, a significant symbol of power, is mentioned and revered. When Ralph blows the conch, everyone gathers around, compelled to follow. Although Piggy initially noticed the conch, Ralph is credited with its discovery and utilization. Ralph thought it was a stone, but Piggy corrects him and explains what he knows about it. Piggy becomes excited and describes it as a shell he once saw on someone’s wall, calling it a conch. The shell emits a deep, harsh sound that amazes Ralph. The discovery of the conch not only holds great importance but also symbolizes unity among everyone. Ralph once again displays his leadership skills by recognizing the usefulness of the conch. He decides to give it to the next person who wants to speak.The quote “(Golding, 33)” reveals that the children are starting to develop organization and sharpen their skills in communication. They are able to hold and use an object while speaking.
Another symbol of strength and command is the fire. Keeping the fire going proves to be a difficult task as the children would rather play than attend to it. Ralph suggests the idea of making a fire, recognizing its importance: “We must make a fire” (Golding, 38). Ralph’s idea not only serves as a critical attempt to save everyone but also earns him more respect and responsibility. Jack proposes using Piggy’s glasses to light the fire, stating “His specs-use them as burning glasses!” (Golding, 40). Although they have the responsibility to maintain the fire, they become distracted by hunting, causing it to go out. This failure angers Ralph as he realizes the missed opportunity for rescue: “There was a ship. Out there. You said you’d keep the fire going and you let it out!” (Golding, 70). Despite their inability to effectively govern themselves through the fire, the conch serves as a symbol of growing hope and potential for advancement. Golding skillfully combines emotion, thought, and symbolism in Lord Of The Flies to depict a story of survival through adaptation and ingenuity.
