Essay On The Conch In Lord Of The Flies

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Power represents many ideas. It could denote one’s ability to act and influence the actions of others or it could also personify one’s special privileges. In the novel Lord of the Flies by William Golding, the most important idea is the role of power on the island and how it is displayed through the possession of the conch and the natural leadership qualities of Ralph because they demonstrate the origin of power on the island. Throughout the story, the conch is seen as a prize that grants anyone holding it with the ability of freedom of speech and respect from the others. For example, as the boys were deciding on who would become the chief, they looked to Ralph, the being who blew the conch, and exclaim, “‘Him with the shell.’” (Golding, 22). This reveals that the final decision on electing a leader was based on the fact that Ralph was merely holding the conch. Golding is conveying the idea that the conch automatically acts as a symbol of power as it was able to gather up all the boys with one call. If Ralph was not holding the conch, Jack would have most likely been the one to take on the role of the chief. Moreover, when Ralph …show more content…
Money in the modern world represents power as those with more of it have access to more privileges and opportunities in life. They are able to use the money to make purchases that will benefit themselves or others depending on what they want, unlike someone who lacks money. This idea is important to people who are not trapped on islands because it demonstrates that there are many forms of power, and having access to these forms of power can enable one to accomplish virtually anything they want. Knowing this, it is important to understand that there must be a balance or limit to power as it could fully consume a person and cause