Tension In Lord Of The Flies

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In chapter 9 of Lord of The Flies, William Golding’s description of the water as ethereal and welcoming creates a calm atmosphere that contrasts with the dark events that preceded, creating unease. Following the tragic death of Simon during the ritual, his mutilated body is left on the beach, untouched by the savages of the tribe and completely subject to natural intervention. As Simon’s body lay still, “The edge of the lagoon became a streak of phosphorescence that advanced minutely, as the great wave of the tide flowed” (153). The tide’s “flow” and minute advancement portrays the water as natural and pure as it progresses toward the body. This opposes the unnatural and animalistic slaying that preceded the tide’s calm progression, constructing …show more content…
As the remaining unpainted members of the tribe approaching the new camp, Ralph acknowledges the growing strain in his relationship with Jack and prepares for the worst. As Ralph and his remaining followers approach the camp, Jack begins to feel threatened and reacts by saying, “‘You go away, Ralph. You keep to your end. This is my end and my tribe…’” (176). Jack’s fear of his power being taken away is so great that he demands that Ralph leave his new territory. This perceived danger from Ralph’s approach adds more tension to their relationship, and as the tension increases, so does Jack’s potential to use deadly force. With the heightened pressure on Jack to make a move, he is forced to direct an attack on Ralph’s followers. When Jack’s painted tribe finally recognized that they should move in, “They felled the twins clumsily and excitedly” (179). Jack’s presence as a leader allows the tribe to feed off of his energy as well as recognize and act on his wishes. This means that when Jack is in a state of boldness, the tribe can use that power and execute his wishes on their own. It is this mechanism that allows them to capture the twins with newfound excitement. As Jack continues to project this energy, his megalomania is satisfied and his estrangement with Ralph intensifies. This finally leads to