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Literary Analysis Essay
Falling From Grace
Lord of the Flies was ranked as the eighth most challenged "classic" book in American
culture according to the National Library Association. However, this novel also won the Nobel
Peace Prize for Literature in 1983. Despite any criticism, this clearly shows its enduring
importance in our society. Golding's ingenious social commentary regarding mankind's
brutality continues to capture readers' imagination today. Along with the suspenseful plot.
Golding incorporates a clever use of symbolism throughout the story. In William Golding's
novel. Lord of the Flies, the parachutist symbolizes the lack of adult supervision on the island.
Early on, the boys realize there are no adults on the island, and they decide to govern
themselves by creating a society. They hold assemblies, elect a chief, and establish rules.
However, this attempt at civilization soon begins to unravel. Jack and the hunters refuse to
follow the rules. Instead of focusing on the signal fire and shelters, they choose to have fun and
hunt. Ralph mused, "If only they could send us something grown-up...a sign or something"
(Golding 43). He knows he is losing control of the group, and wishes there was an adult to help
them. As a result, the law and order of the adult world dissolves as juvenile irresponsibility
grows under Jack's control.
Later in the novel the lack of adults on the island is becoming increasingly more
problematic. Ralph and Jack continue to argue about priorities. Piggy looks for a sign from the
adult world to help them. That night, a plane is shot down, and the body of the dead parachutist
lands on the island. The story reads."... a sign came down from the world of grown-ups, though