To explore the theme that some conflicts can never be fully resolved, we can look at William Golding's "Lord of the Flies." The novel is set on a deserted island, which serves as both a literal and symbolic setting that amplifies the tensions between civilization and savagery. The isolation of the boys from the structured society amplifies their inherent conflicts, each reflecting different aspects of human nature.
The characters of Ralph and Jack epitomize the struggle between order and chaos. Ralph represents a longing for civilization and communal safety, while Jack embodies the primal instincts of power and savagery. Their initial attempts to create order—a signal fire, shelters, and rules—begin to unravel as fear and tribal instincts take hold. Though Ralph tries to maintain some semblance of order, the conflict between his ideals and Jack's desire for dominance escalates throughout the plot.
Textual evidence supporting this theme can be found in the pivotal moment when the boys engage in the frenzied hunt that results in Simon's death. This incident underscores how conflict among the boys has escalated beyond resolution; they become consumed by their primal instincts. Simon, who represents innate goodness and truth, is brutally killed in a moment of collective hysteria, illustrating that the descent into savagery is complete. The setting of the forest, dark and primal, serves as a symbol of the boys’ loss of innocence and the darkness within human nature, suggesting that no matter the attempts at civility, the innate conflict of humanity remains irreconcilable.
In contrast, the theme of growing up means fully seeing others as complete individuals can be vividly illustrated in J.D. Salinger's "The Catcher in the Rye." The protagonist, Holden Caulfield, grapples with his perception of the adult world and the complexities of those around him. Throughout the novel, Holden often idealizes children, wanting to protect their innocence, as seen when he fantasizes about being the "catcher in the rye," responsible for saving children from falling into the corruption of adulthood.
The pivotal interactions Holden has with his younger sister, Phoebe, demonstrate his struggle to see others as complete individuals. At first, Holden is dismissive of adults, viewing them as "phony," including his perceptions of his peers. However, during a moment of clarity in the carousel scene towards the end of the novel, Holden watches Phoebe ride. He experiences a shift in understanding—realizing that he cannot save her from life's inevitable challenges, but he can appreciate her individuality. The setting of the carousel—symbolizing the cyclical nature of life—highlights this realization; Holden is forced to acknowledge that growing up means allowing loved ones to face their own conflicts and experiences.
Both texts poignantly illustrate how themes manifest through plot development, character interactions, and the significance of their settings, offering deep insights into the complexities of human nature and relationships.