For this blog post, please:
1) Choose 3 challenging words/new words for you and define them.
2) Ask (3) questions from the chapter that you'd really like answered.
3) Write a response, choosing a line and explaining it's significance to you. Please remember: no plot re-cap! Share your analysis, make connections to the world, ask questions, discuss imagery, and deepen your thinking.
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ReplyDelete1. Rebuke - to criticize sharply or to checkor repress
ReplyDelete2. Demure - modest or reserved manner of behavior
3. Fervor - great intensity of emotion
Questions
1. What does the Lord of the Flies mean when he says to Simon, "so don't try it on - or else."
2. Do you think the boys will choose Jack over Ralph and switch over to his "tribe?"
3. I'm confused with what the message was behind Simon's encounter with the Lord of the Flies, what was he planning on doing to it?
"There isn't anyone to help you. Only me. And I'm the beast." p 143
I find it so ironic how in the end, the beast is created from man itself. Although everyone thought that there was a beast before, there really never was. Until the group splits up and we really begin to see what evil Jack posseses, that is when the real beast comes into play. The fact that the beast, or the Lord of the Flies, was created by the boys, symbolizes that evil and beast is within all of us, just not yet unleashed. It is so powerful that it even has the power to control others, like Simon. I feel like this "evil" will become the new source of power for the group, as little by little, the boys start to transfer over to Jacks' tribe. They will replace the conch, the symbol of civilization and order on the island, with the pig's head, as it is probably meant to scare people more than it is used for use of communication. The fact that it is a head could also symbolize the mask that all of us humans are hiding under. Much like Ralph feels like a new person when he wears his face paint, we too are all hiding under a "civilized" mask, not yet releasing our inner savage. As the pig head starts to decompose, that is when it will show our own true colors.
Rebuke: To express sharp, stern disapproval of; reprove; reprimand.
ReplyDeleteSensuously: Perceived by or affecting the senses, readily affected through the senses, of or pertaining to sensible objects or to the senses.
Parody: Any humorous, satirical, or burlesque imitation, as of a person, event, etc.
1) What are the odds that Ralph does end up succumbing to the primal urges the other boys are feeling, and "stops caring" as he is worried he might? What would happen to the swiftly deteriorating society on the island, and would any of the boys actually survive? How important is Ralph in the grand scheme of things on the island now that Jack seems to have taken action against him?
2) Jack does not actually gain any followers when he first calls a meeting to overthrow Ralph, and ends up being seriously humiliated. However, almost all of his choir members (or hunters) end up following him into the forest once the meeting is adjourned. Were these boys taking time to think over their options, or were they just afraid to speak up when they didn't know who else would share their beliefs?
3) At the end of the chapter, Simon seems to have reverted totally into his own mind and no longer even registers the severe dehydration that he is experiencing. The Lord of the Flies introduces itself, and is apparently a part of Simon himself. Why does the "Lord" manifest itself the way it does, and how might Simon take action based on its words? The Lord of the Flies is a fairly menacing entity (or hallucination).
" 'I'm not going to play any longer. Not with you.' "
Jack says this after he is disregarded by the rest of the boys in his desire to become chief in Ralph's stead. The fact that he refers to the situation, and his relationship with Ralph and the others, as a game he can "play" with them is something I find very compelling. Jack, it would seem, doesn't fully understand, or chooses to ignore, the weight of the situation he is in. He finds their entire time on the island something to play with and manipulate, which shows me that the violence he partakes in is purely recreational for him. Another interesting thing about this quote is that in the previous chapter, Shadows and Tall Trees, after injuring Robert Ralph refuses to accept what he had just partaken in and tries (and fails) to brush it off completely as yet another game. Is this whole situation so unimportant to the boys, or is it just that they have no way to compare this state of being to anything they have dealt with before, so they cannot think about it rationally? I think it's something to consider.
Rebuke (pg 128): (Verb) To express sharp disapproval or criticism of (someone) because of their behavior or actions
ReplyDeleteImmediacy (pg 135): (Noun) The quality of bringing one into direct and instant involvement with something
Furtive (pg 137): (Adjective) Attempting to avoid notice or attention, typically because of guilt or a belief that discovery would lead to trouble; secretive.
Could there be another way to get rescued instead of the fire?
Why did Simon decide to wander off alone?
What caused Simon’s encounter with the Lord of the Flies?
“How can we make a fire?”
“We’ll raid them and take fire.” (Jack) (pg 136)
Jack, from the beginning of the novel, wanted to be the leader but that wasn’t going to happen because Ralph was elected leader and no one was going to vote him out. But now, Jack finally got what he wanted and declared himself chief of his hunting group. He always wanted the power and to show that he’s strong but what i don’t understand is why he decide to steal Ralph’s fire instead of making his own? Jack, truly is weak although he believes otherwise. A true leader, no matter what, would have found a way to build a fire just like Ralph and Piggy did. This just shows that all Jack and his group are capable of is hunting. I can easily predict that whether Jack likes it or not, his group is going to have to reunite with Ralph because they won’t be able to do something like simply build a fire, like Ralph’s group can.
Good point! That fact that jack chosses to steal a fire indicates that ther did no longer any moral in him. Instead of asking he takes because e that's what an wild animal does. They don't voice there opinions. Jacks group is all about the physical power of the boys where Piggy and Ralph are the mind. These two will never work great alone but it would be best if they where together.
DeleteDemure: Reserved, modest, or shy
ReplyDeleteTremors: Involuntary quivering movements
Demoniac: Possessed or influenced by a demon
1) Why did Jack arrive to steal Ralph’s fire naked? Does this complete Jack’s transfer into the jungle?
2) Would Jack allow Piggy to join the feast after their previous encounters?
3) Has Simon completely lost his mind? Who will he side with now, Jack or Ralph?
“The half shut eyes were dim with the infinite cynicism of adult life. They assured Simon that everything was a bad business” (137)
This very dark quote stood out to me because it further shows Simons deep thoughts about society on the island. As he sees the bloody head of the pig the boys had recently killed and left for the beast, he thinks about how much evil can be held within a human. According to him, it’s infinite. Throughout the book, we have seen the evil brought out in the boys, but this quote fully explains and shows that the boys have officially become savages. In the quote Simon mentions adult life, however, the children aren’t adults yet. I think he means that if children can be this cruel and savage like, there is no limit to the amount of evilness that adults have absorbed. After this dark discovery it will be interesting to see if Simon ever recovers like he partially did when he thought the beast was just fear of the people they have and will become.
1) Rebuke- To express sharp, stern disapproval of; reprove; reprimand (Verb).
ReplyDelete2) Derisive- Showing or characterized by derision; mocking; scornful (Adjective).
3) Demure- Characterized by shyness and modesty; reserved (Adjective).
1) Why didn’t the boys vote for Jack to become the new chief even after Jack lists all of Ralph’s mistakes? What does this reveal about both Jack and Ralph?
2) Why do Jack and his tribe cut off the pig’s head and put it on a stick? What does this reveal about Jack and his tribe?
3) Why is the beast called, “Lord of the flies”? What does this signify? The title of the book is named, “Lord of the Flies” and the beast is also named, “Lord of the flies” what is the connection between both of them?
“I'm warning you. I'm going to get angry. D'you see? You're not wanted. Understand? We are going to have fun on this island! So don't try it on, my poor misguided boy, or else” (144).
This quote really stood out to me because it shows that Simon is going crazy and he’s hallucinating. He is talking to a pigs head on a stick, which is weird and it reveals that Simon is losing his mind. The “beast” is telling Simon to have fun otherwise he’s going to angry; he is giving orders to Simon. Furthermore, I think when the “beast” says “misguided” he means that Simon isn’t on the right path and that he should give up on being rescued and start having fun on the island. When the beast says, “You’re not wanted” I think he states this because he knows that Simon is the only one who is still civilized and he is still determined to get rescued while the other boys are becoming savages and have given up on being rescued. The beast wants Simon to turn savage like the other boys so they can all have fun on the island together. The beast undoubtedly represents pure evil and Simon symbolizes pureness and goodness, which is why it was interesting to see Simon and the beast face to face. Will the beast turn Simon savage like the other boys or will Simon stay the way he is? I wonder if the “beast” is part Simon’s imagination. If it is the beast is real would Simon tell the other boys especially considering the fact the boys don’t take anything Simon says seriously?
1. tremors: involuntary, quivering movements
ReplyDelete2. derisive: expressing contempt or ridicule
3. cynicism: when someone believes people are motivated purely by self-interest rather than acting for honorable or unselfish reasons.
Questions:
1. What is the symbolic meaning of the fire in this chapter?
2. Why did the author choose to make the pig female?
3. When the pig's head is talking to Simon, why does it say "You like Ralph a lot, don't you? And Piggy, and Jack?"
"The beast comes out of the sea--"
"Out of the dark--"
"Trees--"
This dialogue stood out to me because it shows the insignificance of what the beast actually is. The idea of the beast is more important than the actual physical beast. When the kids are yelling out where they think the beast comes from they're just naming the unknown places on the island. The beast comes from all those places because it is fear of the unknown. The beast is themselves because as the pig says later in the chapter, "I'm part of you? Close, close, close! I'm the reason why it's no go? Why things are what they are?" This part shows that Simon sees that the children are the reason that things are "no go," because they created the idea of the monster. I think that the voice of the pig's head is in Simon's imagination. In the pig's quote the question marks show that there are no answers to anything, so the answers usually become whatever the majority of the group thinks.
Rebuke: (Verb) To express sharp disapproval or criticism of (someone) because of their behavior or actions
ReplyDeleteDemure: (Adj.) Reserved, modest, and shy
Obscene: (Adj.) Offensive or disgusting by accepted standards of morality and decency
1. Why did the boys treat the beast like a god, leaving it sacrifices of meat?
2. What was the significance of making the pig a mother?
3. Is there a reason only Simon is going crazy enough to talk to 'The Lord Of The Flies'?
I accidentally read both chapters last night and posted a quote from chapter 8, so here it is again, sorry!
"The sow collapsed under them and they were heavy and fulfilled upon her. The butterflies still danced, preoccupied in the center of the clearing." (p.135)
This quote stuck out to me because of how incredibly opposite they both are. One speaks of a gruesome death, and the other of a happy and joyous life. Combined, they create a strange scene, allowing the reader to look deeper into the true meaning of this odd pairing. I looked up what butterflies usually represent, and it came back with lost souls waiting to get into purgatory. I think this symbolism is meant to show that although a pig has just been murdered, there are still good and beautiful things in the world that will continue on. The butterflies show that the killing was for a greater good, and that every deed has a counter to balance it out.
Tremulous-timid, timorous, fearful.
ReplyDeleteRebuke-sharp, stern disapproval; reproof; reprimand.
Derisive-characterized by or expressing derision; contemptuous; mocking.
1)What causes Simon, out of all the boys, to be the one who goes crazy? Is it caused by something in his old life? Why are the other boys still sane?
2)How do the boys feel no regret or sadness after brutally killing the pig?
3)Why does Jack think that he is any better as a leader than Ralph?
"Even if he shut his eyes the sow's head still remained like an after-image. The half-shut eyes were dim with the infinite cynicism of adult life. They assured Simon that everything was a bad business. 'I know that'" (157).
This quote stood out to me because it goes deeper into the deterioration of Simon's character. It shows how much Simon was affected by the killing of the pig, so much that it seems to be haunting him. Golding describes the pig head's eyes as "dim with the infinite cynicism of adult life" to highlight the novel's theme of children being forced to live like adults, which also seems to be one of the reasons for Simon's demise. The eyes assuring Simon that everything is a "bad business" represents Simon losing his childlike innocence that keeps him from being a cycnical adult. Simon's eerie response of "I know that" signified his grim character. Simon is the only boy who is recognizing the savagery of the boys who surround him, and it is too daunting for him to handle.
Clementine, I agree with you! I think Simon is traumatized by the killing of the pig. Simon is the only one who notices that the boys are becoming savages and I think at this points it is way too much for much him to handle. Furthermore, that quote shows how the boys on the island are kind of forced to act like adults even though they're not mentally prepared for that.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteVocabulary:
ReplyDeleteFurtive- adj. attempting to avoid attention due to guilt or when trying to be secretive about something.
Iridescent- adj. luminous colors that seem to change when you look at it at different angles.
Rebuke- v. to express sharp disapproval to ones behavior or actions.
Questions:
What really is "wrong" like Ralph asked Piggy? What broke the boys apart?
What is the significance of the word "play" when Jack says he doesn't want to play anymore? Piggy uses the word too later in the chapter on page 131.
What is the general significance of the Lord of the Flies?
Response:
The part I found interesting this chapter was when Jack was addressing his new group as chief: "'And about the beast. When we kill we'll leave some of the kill for it. Then it won't bother us, maybe'" (133). Throughout the book the boys have been creating these images of the beast in their heads that circulated fear within the group. This is interesting, because now they created this dogma-like thought that the beast is a carnivore and feeding it will keep them safe. This is different because this creation satisfies them, or is used as a coping mechanism for reality. I'm not trying to offend people, and I'm sorry if I do, but I believe that religion parallels this idea. To my knowledge the religions I've heard of all contain this idea that you will benefit or you will be safe if you practice it. Having this faith is a whole other story, but I believe that in general religion was created by people to cope with the confusing and scary world around them . The boys don't understand the "beast", nor do they know any actuality about it, but they most definitely are scared of it. To cope with this fear, Jack planted this idea in all their heads that they will be safe if they feed it. I'm guessing they believed it, and why? Because they don't want to be fearful, and this is their only way of avoiding a supposed horrible fate. They have no other explanation. This characteristic is not only of children, but of adults as well. Whether you have faith or not, science is on the rise and explanations for the world around us are replacing many of the past's man-made myths.
Demure: Reserved, modest, and shy behavior
ReplyDeleteFurtive: Attempting to avoid notice or attention
Rebuke: To express sharp criticism or disapproval
1. Will the rest of the boys gravitate towards Jack’s tribe or stay loyal to Ralph?
2. After Jack and his tribe cuts off the head of the pig and puts it on a stick, and he shows up to steal Ralph’s fire, naked, has Jack completely been consumed by the island?
3. Will Simon’s growing independence lead to his demise?
“We’ll hunt. I’m going to be chief. They nodded, and the crisis passed easily.” (133)
I chose this quote because I found it interesting that the author chose to describe the situation as a crisis. Based off of the ease of the situation that is the last word I would choose to describe it by. The author is trying to illustrate that Jack was expecting, almost hoping for a fight or some type of opposition after all the turmoil with Ralph and Piggy. He is not used to lack of opposition and argument. I am excited to see how he is going to handle this new power.
Vocabulary:
ReplyDeleteDemented- Mentally ill; insane.
Covert- Covered or covered over; sheltered.
Iridescent- Producing a display of lustrous, rainbow like colors
Questions:
What does Simon's “There isn’t anyone to help you. Only me. And I’m the Beast." signify, and is this only time this idea has been brought up?
Do you think this split between Jack and Ralph is permanent?
Why do you think Jack calls Ralph weak?
Quote:
"He'll come back. When the sun goes down he'll come."(146)
This quote shows the multitude of personalities that are confined in their society and how they clash. Ralph is trying to keep order and control over everyone and everything but his comfort with their situation causes him to confine to the islands ways. It's as if he's fighting his own desire to be free on the island, but his determination to get home is forcing him to be more conservative. Then, they have this situation with a beast, an unknown threat that nobody really knows how to deal with.
Paunch: A large and protruding belly; potbelly
ReplyDeleteFurtive: Done by stealth or expressive of stealth
Sodden: Heavy with or as if with moisture or water
1) On page 140 when the name Jack is mentioned the narrator writes that there was "A taboo evolving around that word too." What does this mean for the well-being of the group and maybe even more importantly the sanity of Jack Merridew? Why does Golding use the word "taboo", does Jack represent a danger to the group?
2) On page 142 Ralph forgets the word rescue and Piggy is forced to whisper it to him. Why can't Ralph the very person who should always be aware of that word remember it? Does this signify his loss of power to the group?
3) What is the significance of the "Lord of the Flies" speaking to Simon? Why does he call Simon a "silly little boy"?
"When I saw Jack I was sure he'd go for the conch. Can't think why." (141) This quote stood out to me because it addresses the rapid loss of importance of the conch for Jack and his hunters while it also displays the sentimental value it holds to the others on the island. The significance of the conch has deteriorated along with the children throughout the book. This point in the story marks an incredibly important part in the lives of Piggy and Ralph. Prior to this when the others started to get to out of hand or fear the beast, they could be reeled in by the conch. While it provided the littluns with a sense of security it no longer has the religious power it used to have and this means that Jack's freedom to do what he wants is at its peak. Piggy says that he cannot think why but I think he knows better than anyone, although he is also the most afraid of the truth. If the conch is no longer evident in their society, Jack will almost certainly target Piggy and he will have no way to protect himself. Piggy protects the conch while the others watch what Jack has to say because he knows what it would mean for him with it gone.
vocabulary:
ReplyDelete1.Rebuke: v. express sharp disapproval
2.Jeering: v. to make rude or mocking remarks
3.scuttling: v. Run hurriedly or furtively with short quick steps
Questions:
1. why didn't Simon run from "Lord of the flies"? Paralyzed by fear?
2.Is Simon really going "batty"?
3.will all the other boys eventually go join Jack's group?
"'He might be.' He gulped his mouthful. 'He's cracked'" (132)
When Ralph asked if he thinks Jack is climbing the mountain to Piggy and he replies with the quote I think that when he says "he's cracked" that Jack has finally gone insane and that he is crazy enough to try and climb the mountain again even with the beast on top of it. But something inside Jack really did snap like him trying to vote Ralph out of power then start his own group, I don't think he was thinking straight when he decided to do this at all because both groups need each other to get by on the island.
I also discussed the same thing about Jack, and i believe he is stepping up his game and finding a solution to a problem that Ralph is too much of a coward to do so himself. Jack is going to have much power soon and as of right now and the way things are a leader like Jack will be beneficial for the group. I am also excited to see what Jack would do with this power.
DeleteWords:
ReplyDelete1.) Fervor: great intensity of emotion.
2.) Rebuke: To express sharp, stern disapproval of.
3.) Demure: Reserved or shy.
Questions:
1.) Will the bigruns stay loyal to Ralph or go join Jack and start that group on there own?
2.) How can the boys just take the Mother Pigs life so easily? Do they not feel guilty after?
3.) What is wrong with Simon, who is he going to side with Ralph or Jack?
Response:
"And about the beast. When we kill, we'll leave some of the kill for it. Then it won't bother us, maybe" (133).
This chapter is quite interesting and i want to focus on Jack's character in this case. Jack is a person who does what he wants to do and he is a natural leader, where ever he will go people will eventually follow. Jack is coming up with a solution to a problem that Ralph is too scared to handle. In a real life situation, there is no room for mistakes and frightfulness, Ralph is not fit to be chief anymore. They actually have a major problem on there hands and Jack who i believe is a better leader then Ralph now is coming up with ways to put an end to the crisis. Before you know it Jack will have a majority of the follower and a lot of powers and i can't wait to see how he uses that power.
Vocab:
ReplyDeletederisive - expressing ridicule.
Demure - Reserved, modest, shy.
Furtive - attempting to avoid attention due to guilt or when trying to be secretive about something.
Questions:
What is the significance of Simon, and his contemplation of facing the beast?
Why do the boys give the different groups on the island a sort of religious and sacrificial connotation?
Why do all of the boys on the island keep referring to their survival as "playing"?
Response:
I noticed lots of interesting things in this chapter. For one, the boys were constantly doing strange, ritualistic things that I normally would associate with religion. Like when Jack brings his small group out to hunt, they kill the pig and leave the head on the spear as a sort of sacrifice to the beast. I believe a lot of this is to feed the fear that they create around the beast. They do not understand it, and are inevitably afraid of it. They know so little about it, so their first instinct is to shy away. The only difference between Jack's group and Ralph's group is the way they idealize certain parts of their every day life. Jack focuses on the violent side, killing the pigs and leaving sacrifices, ruling out of fear. Ralph enjoys power in his hands, like controlling the fire and having the conch to keep order.
First, they leave the head of the sow on the stick not the pig. But, I agree with what you said about the little religious ritual thing that Jack's group is having. It's showing that Jack doesn't have the potential to kill the beast so he is using "sacrifice" as way to protect him and the group. I also think that Maybe Jack knows that the Beast doesn't exist and this is all an act to have his group members think that he's strong enough to protect them. It's like he's driving the idea into their heads and they don't even know it. the kids are following Jack's orders because they just want to survive and be safe; they want protection.
Delete1. words
ReplyDeletea.Tremors- a slight earthquake; a slight movement
b.Demure- reserved; modest; shy (of a women’s behavior)
c.Iridescent- bright or shining colors that change when seen at different angles.
2. questions
a. why is jack getting mad now at this point? why didn't he rebel against Ralph being the leader in the beginning?
b. What made the boys finally decide to go to jack's side?
c. what will happen now between the two groups? will they have a war on the island?
3. response
"Jack held up the head and jammed the soft throat down on the pointed end of the stick which pierced through into the mouth. He stood back and the head hung there, a little blood dribbling down the stick" (137).
This paragraph stood out to me because it’s showing how violent Jack is getting. By doing this to the sow, it can mean that Jack is warning Ralph and his crew to back off and/or to maybe even “scare/warn” the beast because its showing that they have no mercy. They will kill for survival. Jack also does this to probably scare the people in his group implying that if they betray him, something bad will happen to him. It’s showing that he is strong and he has the potential to kill; it gives him more power because the kids that followed him see him as a “chief” and not just a coward leader Ralph is. This paragraph is also showing the reader that Jack is going a little insane. Just like in chapter 7 when the kids pretended Robert was a board and almost killed him. They don’t realize that what they are doing is actually hurting each other. I have a feeling that in the end, a small war will be broken out between Ralph’s group and Jack’s group because Jack will eventually want more power and more followers and the only way to do that is if he kills Ralph.
1) rebuke: express sharp disapproval or criticism of someone because of their actions
ReplyDeletebough: a main branch of a tree
demure: reserved, modest, shy
2) -When Simon is talking to the Lord of the Flies, is he criticizing himself?
-What does Simon think will happen to him? Does he think he will become a savage?
-Will Ralph become a savage?
3) “At last Simon gave up and looked back; saw the white teeth and dim eyes, the blood – and his gaze was held by that ancient, inescapable recognition.” (138) Simon is talking to the Lord of the Flies, which is really himself. The “ancient, inescapable recognition” represents him. Simon cannot escape from himself, and he will always remain that “ancient” self. When Simon looks at “himself”, what is he seeing? Is he seeing himself as a savage, or is he trying to analyze what will become of him? I find Simon the most interesting character. He is neither a follower nor a leader. He always remains himself, and I respect that. However, I am trying to analyze his character. Why is he significant to the story? Simon is more of a mature character. He could represent the “adult” on the island, but he is demure. Why is he always helping other people? Simon is like an outsider, a martyr. He is brave and symbolizes sacrifice. He helps the littluns pick fruit, while other boys bathe in the lagoon. He also offers his meat to Piggy when no one else offers theirs. All the boys shun Simon when he says the beast may be themselves. He is thought of as batty for his beliefs. He is then discouraged from sharing his thoughts and shrinks away from the group, or society. Perhaps I cannot analyze who Simon is because he is still trying to find his own identity. Universally, most people do not know who they are when they are shunned by society. They second guess themselves. Simon gazing at the Lord of the Flies represents him looking at his reflection, and trying to figure out who he truly is inside.
Vocab:
ReplyDeleteFervor- passionate feeling
Iridescent-luminous colors
Rebuke- express criticism
Questions:
-Do you think it was a wise choice for the children to make two different groups or will it be the end of physical peace on the island?
-Do you think that the pig being viciously killed is the authors way of showing a war that will occur between the two groups?
-What is Simon's role in the story and how do you think he'll correct the ways of the children?
"The half-shut eyes were dim with the infinite cynicism of adult life. They assured Simon that everything was a bad business" (137)
This quote really stood out because it shows the true good inside of Simon. I think that Simon is a very interesting character and he really shows the boys from the beginning, being nice children basically. He is the only one that stayed fairly good throughout the story, not trying to get into conflicts because he knows that these small conflicts can amount to something just as what happened to the boys . I think that it is also interesting that the pig fixates on him as a character instead of any other character. I think that this pig shows the transformation of the boys and it haunts Simon to try to test him as the story progresses.
Vocab:
ReplyDelete1) Derisive, expressing ridicule.
2) Paunch, a large and protruding belly.
3) Iridescent, brilliant, lustrous, or colorful in effect or appearance.
Questions:
1) What is the beast?
2) Why does Jack take so much pride in his hunting? Where did he even get the idea of hunting in the first place?
3) Why is Simon so weird? Why is everyone on this island so weird? What is the significance of this island?
Response:
"'Talk,' said Ralph bitterly, 'talk, talk, talk.'" (125)
I found this line interesting because it is one of the first times that we actually see Ralph getting fed up. Usually, Ralph is the one who wants to talk things out, take their time, and do the rational thing. But his response to Jack blowing the conch is agressive and frustrated, why is he now tired of talking? Ralph has deteriorated as time has gone on, he is becoming nervous, distressed, and home sick. Maybe Jack is right when he says that Ralph is no longer fit for Chief, but then again, none of the other boys seem like good candidates either.
Blundered: make such a mistake; act or speak clumsily
ReplyDeleteDemure: (of clothing) lending such an appearance
Vexed: annoyed, frustrated, or worried
How is Jacks separating from the group going to affect everyone? (Not only Ralph, will the way Ralph see his separation rub off onto others? Or will they be happy Jack is no longer apart of their lives?
How did going with Jack help the other boys, what benefits did they gain while siding with him? Was it because of loyalty? The only reason Jack left was because of power and anger; did the other boys think it was best for them to follow him? Or were they just doing what they were supposed to do?
Does Jack think of the consequences of his actions? Or does he never think of the future?
“The island was getting worse and worse” (139)
Ralph was beginning to fight so hard for respect loyalty and power in order to keep everyone on the island safe, and he had the ultimate goal of getting rescued. Ralph was always focusing on how to get rescued, while Jack on the other hand was thinking of anything but leaving the island. Ralph knew that the only way to be rescued was to stick together as a group, and with Jack splitting apart, he was not helping Ralph’s plan. The island was getting worse and worse in a way that competition was growing, their chances of leaving were sliming down and their resources were based on weather they were hunters or not. The competition between Ralph and Jack is ultimately what is behind them splitting into two groups. If they both didn’t want power so bad, then they may have found a way to resolve this power struggle, but they didn’t and Jack got angry once it came to him that he would not be the leader of that group, so he left. Their ability to not compromise got in the way of what could have been a strong leadership.
Rebuke-to express sharp disapproval or criticism.
ReplyDeleteTrod-to walk in a specified way.
Dribbling-to fall or flow in drops.
Questions:
-What makes Simon afraid of the "Lord of the Flies"?
-Will the split between the children cause a physical conflict?
-Why is Ralph the only one worried about getting saved?
"You are a silly little boy...just an ignorant, silly little boy."(143)
I think this quote shows the reader how Simon is feeling right now. I can see how he, and the rest of the boys, can feel worthless. I'm sure they feel like they aren't doing anything productive. Simon just sleeps on his mat and hides out for most of the time, and this is causing some of his worthless feelings. I don't think the Lord of the Flies is real, I think it's just Simon's subconscious talking to him, and making him feel worthless.
I also think the Lord of the Flies is Simon's subconcious. I think a lot of their conversation has to do with Simon's realization and acceptance that the beast is really just something within man--he was absolutely right before--and that is why the Lord of the Flies says it is something you cannot hunt and kill. His craziness may be a result of him struggling to come to grips with what he thinks may be inside of him, and every other boy in the island--giving him an expectation for what is to come, when the struggle between Ralph and Jack escalates.
Delete1. Tremulous- shaking or quivering slightly.
ReplyDelete2. Prefect- A chief officer or governor of a certain region.
3. Demure- Reserved, modest, and shy.
1. What was Simon thinking of when the head says to him, "do you think you know better than I do?"
2. What was Jack's reason for finally tipping and leaving the group? Had Ralph not acted like a leader back at the mountain?
3. Why was everyone unable to vote against Ralph at the assembly? Why were they too scared that they had to sneak off, if there were so many that wanted to anyway?
"Ralph considered this and understood. He was vexed to find out how little he thought like a grownup and sighed again." page 194.
I think it is interesting how the boys hold such a high standard to the actions of adults. They almost worship adults, wish for adults, and highly revere them--simply because it is what they have been taught to do. I think the argument could be made that adults are really just as savage and violent as boys are, but they have been trained, in a way, by living in society for such a number of years, that they are not allowed to act in ways that Jack and the hunters do. The boys, especially Jack and the hunters, are really a display of what man (both kids and adults) are like when there are no rules to guide them, and no one to tell them how to behave, or set an example. Ralph definitely seems to want to act like a grownup, and becomes seemingly exasperated when he finds himself not acting like one--this proves that they think so highly of adult life. However, I wonder if they will ever realize that at heart, they are just about the same.
A. Vex- To bring trouble, distress or agitation
ReplyDeleteB. Furtive- obtained underhandedly
C. Fervor- intensity of feeling or expression
1) Will Ralph and Jack will come together as a group to defeat this beast, for the safety of the boys?
2) Does the flies swarming around the pig’s head symbolize something? Or does it tie in with the title of this novel?
3) Jack’s offering of inviting the boys to the feast is out of pity or is Jack trying to make peace with the boys?
•“Simon’s head wobbled. His eyes were half closed as though he were imitating the obscene thing on the stick. He knew that one of his times was coming on. The Lord of the Flies was expanding like a balloon.”
This line stood out to me because it reflected on how Simon’s reaction to the head on the stake rather than most of the boys. The head on the stake to the other boys represented a sacrifice and a gift as Jack describes it to the beast. But, Simon sees its in a completely different perspective he sees it as the end of civilization and for these boys and having more of a dominant dark nature. This idea of the ending of civilization or dark nature is worrisome to Simon causing him to have this episode. Also, we could see how Simon is the only person that is showing some emotions and values of peacefulness and trying to restore some civilization making him ä “Godly” figure or in Latin we would say deus ex machina.
Vocabulary:
ReplyDeleteRebuke: Express sharp disapproval or criticism of (someone) because of their behavior or actions
Lodgment: A place in which a person or thing is located, deposited, or lodged.
Iridescent: Showing luminous colors that seem to change when seen from different angles
Questions:
When Jack decides to separate himself from Ralph the only people that actually follow him at first are his hunters. Did they follow him because they really believe he's right or because of fear?
Why did Golding make Simon the one sort of fascinated or interested with this idea of the beast?
Why did Golding make Simon the one to have the interaction with "The Lord of the Flies?"
"'The fire's the most important thing. Without the fire we can't be rescued. I'd like to put on war-paint and be a savage. But we must keep the fire burning. The fire's the most important thing on the island, because, because-'" (142).
This dialogue stood out to me for a few reasons. The island is now basically split into hunters and the non-hunters. So I think Ralph is basically saying that the hunters are taking the idea of hunting as a game by painting their faces and acting savage. Ralph is like yeah hunting is fun and all but what is hunting going to do and getting them rescued? I also chose this passage because Golding chooses to make Ralph stutter and not remember what was left of his sentence. I think that it's significant that he stutters and Piggy tells him what to say to show he doesn't really believe in getting recused anymore; he doesn't really think the fire will for sure get them rescued. It shows that he is still a kid no matter how hard he tries to be mature and grown up, he isn't confident in what to do anymore, not like he was originally. Piggy is the one who has the idea to move the fire and make the fire again not Ralph, and he helps Ralph finish the sentence. That shows that Ralph doesn't have the mind to think of what needs to be done anymore because he's losing hope in getting rescued. He's slipping away and becoming unhappy or slowly getting depressed. It makes me realize that Ralph is not "normal" anymore. The island and being stuck on the island has definitely interfered with his mentality.
derisive: contemptuous, mocking
ReplyDeleteillusive: deceptive, unreal, based on illusion
fervor: intensity of feeling or belief
Why did the boys go to Jack's side, when before, no one voted that Ralph should no longer be chief?
Does Simon still think that all the boys will get rescued?
Has Ralph and Piggy's relationship changed throughout the book? Is Ralph still annoyed at him, but just using him for comfort?
'Even if he shut his eyes the sow's head still remained like an after-image. the half- shut eyes were dim with the infinite cynicism of adult life. They assured Simon that everything was a bad business. "I know that.(137)"'
When Simon starts seeing the head of the pig, who claims it is the beast, this speaks to the part when Simon said that maybe the beast was in fact in them. The pig itself is not the beast, but rather the imagined conversation that Simon is having with the pig is coming from within him. Simon seems extremely wise when it describes him as knowing that everything is a bad business and that he is cynical as adults are, about life. Although this is an abstract image brought on as a hallucination I think this is very much like teenage hood. We often come into contact with situations in which we think we have the knowledge of adults, and we know the ways of the world. although Simon thinks he knows everything at this point, I think that later he will realize that although he is clever and has a strong mind and conscience, that there is still much in the world that is new to him, and that he could not even imagine exists in the world of adults.
VOCAB
ReplyDelete1-Jeering-Make rude and mocking remarks, typically in a loud voice.
2-Demure-(of a woman or her behavior) Reserved, modest, and shy.
3-Rebuke-Express sharp disapproval or criticism of (someone) because of their behavior or actions.
QUESTIONS
1) I think it is interesting that the boys ran away from the head after piercing it with a stick, but why would Golding make them do this? After all the time they spent hunting a pig you would expect them to stay with it and be proud of it.
2) What is the reason that Simon is the one who has the epiphany with the pig head rather than one of the other boys?
3) Why did people follow Jack? Out of fear or because they truly believe that he will be the best leader?
“There isn’t anyone to help you. Only me. And I’m the Beast. . . . Fancy thinking the Beast was something you could hunt and kill! . . . You knew, didn’t you? I’m part of you? Close, close, close! I’m the reason why it’s no go? Why things are the way they are?”
What is the beast saying? I think this quote is really interesting. The beast is confirming Simon's earlier comment about how maybe the people are the beast. "I'm a part of you?" I think that is why Simon was chosen to meet the talking head. He is the one who initially thought that the people are the beast. The boys are becoming a war. Jack versus Ralph. The beast aka the boys that there is a fight for power and it will not end peacefully. The beast is reconfirming Simon's thoughts. The beast is taunting Simon in an evil sickening way, yet is only portraying the boys. It shows what the boys have become.
Furtive: Done by stealth or expressive of stealth
ReplyDeleteSodden: Heavy with or as if with moisture or water
Vexed: annoyed, frustrated, or worried
Why did Simon go to his quiet place, yet again, what does this show about him?
What is the beast?
SIgnificance of 'The Lord of The Flies' and Simon's conversation, meaning?
Is Jack aware of his actions and the ramifications that shall follow?
Jack says, " 'I'm not going to play any longer. Not with you.' " when deciding that he no longer needs to obey Ralph and the order that everyone else follows. This quote was interesting because it connected to one of my questions, which was whether or not Jack is aware of the ramifications of his actions. Jack is obsessed with hunting and seems to care less or not demonstrate any desire to be rescued. However he seems to display desire to be the alpha-male and kill. This has led me to draw the conclusion that Jack does not take things as serious as he should; Jack is juvenile and cannot realize what is significant and what is not. The difference between desire/hobby and need/survival is something he must learn to differentiate if he wants to be rescued.
Prefect- In some private schools in England an older student with disciplinary authority.
ReplyDeleteRebuke -to blame or scold in a sharp way; reprimand.
Demure- reserved, modest, shy
1) why is Ralph the one to see hiw dirty he is? But also seems like he can't do much about it?
2) why has The Lord of the flies spoken to Simon out of all the other boys on the island? Like Piggy or Ralph
3) why do the boys chose to give a head to the beast as on offering really? So he can stop giving them fear? Or as a peace offering and to show respect?
"This heads for the beast. It's a gift."
Right here I just anwered one my questions. The boys give a gift to the beast. When you give a gift to someone it's because you want to make them happy. He like them and you want to intensify your connection with them. But why after they give the head they run of?