Question

In 4 long paragraphs, write a well made book review (that could be believable a FRESHMAN wrote it) about the book “lord of the flies” by William Golding. Evaluate its contents and presentation. Choose literary elements that you feel the author uses effectively to give meaning to the story. Make a clear claim about the authors use of each literary element, explain how and why you think the author uses it. Support each claim with evidence like quotes from the book, explain how your evidence supports the views you’re sharing with the reader. (Make it straight to the point, make it sound human, and don’t repeat the same thing over and over.)

Answer 1

William Golding’s “Lord of the Flies” is a thought-provoking novel that explores the darker sides of human nature through the lens of a group of boys stranded on a deserted island. The plot begins with a plane crash that leaves these young boys without any adult supervision. Initially, they revel in their freedom, but as chaos ensues, the narrative takes a deeper turn into themes of civilization versus savagery, the innate human capacity for evil, and the loss of innocence. Golding’s sharp portrayal of the boys’ descent into savagery underscores the thin veneer of civilization that hides our primal instincts, making readers question the very foundation of human society.

One of the most striking literary elements that Golding employs is symbolism. The conch shell, for example, emerges as a powerful symbol of civilization and order. When Ralph and Piggy first discover it, they use it to gather the boys and establish rules for their newfound society. The conch represents democracy and the boys’ initial attempts to create a structured community. However, as the story progresses, it loses its power and significance, especially when Jack’s tribe begins to reject the rules established by Ralph and the conch is ultimately destroyed. This moment signifies the breakdown of order and the triumph of chaos, illustrating Golding’s argument that without social structures, humanity’s darker instincts take over. The crumbling of the conch is not just a physical event but acts as a poignant reminder that the fragility of civilization is always at risk.

Another powerful literary element used by Golding is foreshadowing. From the early stages of the novel, readers get hints of the impending chaos that awaits the boys. When Jack first proposes hunting, it’s framed as an innocent adventure, but the tone carries a sense of foreboding. The dynamics between Ralph and Jack exemplify the tension between civilization and savagery, and their rivalry only deepens as the story unfolds. As Jack becomes more obsessed with power and primal instincts, the boys’ descent into barbarism is foreshadowed through scenes of hunting and violence. For instance, when the boys kill Simon in a frenzy, it symbolizes the complete loss of their moral compass, reinforcing the idea that savagery lies just beneath the surface of human behavior. Golding skillfully uses foreshadowing to create a sense of inevitability about the boys’ decline, leaving readers with a chilling sense of how quickly humanity can erode into chaos.

Lastly, Golding’s use of characterization plays a crucial role in highlighting the moral dilemmas faced by the boys. Ralph, the protagonist, embodies order and civilization, while Jack represents the primal instincts that lead to chaos and savagery. The clash between these characters illustrates the struggle between civilization and humanity's inherent aggression. Simon, who symbolizes inherent goodness and morality, is tragically killed, marking a pivotal moment in the narrative that signifies the triumph of savagery over civility. Golding's characters are not merely individuals; they are representations of broader themes about human nature. Through their development, readers witness the transformation from innocence to brutality, leaving a lasting impact that forces us to reflect on the darker aspects of our own nature. In conclusion, “Lord of the Flies” is a profound exploration of humanity that brings forth critical discussions on morality, civilization, and savagery, making it a timeless read that remains relevant even today.