What does crackers mean in Lord of the Flies? If you’re reading Lord of the Flies, you might notice the boys sometimes call each other “crackers.” This word might sound odd if you’re not familiar with British slang, but in this context, “crackers” means crazy or insane. Understanding little expressions like this helps make sense of how the boys interact and the language they use as their situation on the island becomes more chaotic.
What does crackers mean in Lord of the Flies?
In Lord of the Flies, “crackers” is a British slang word that means crazy or insane. When the boys use this term, they’re calling someone’s ideas or behavior wild and unreasonable. For example, in the novel, Piggy says:
“‘You got to be careful and think, the way you think. You’re acting like a crowd of kids.’ ‘Crackers. You are.’”
Here, “crackers” is used to dismiss someone as acting foolish or out of control. Knowing that “crackers” means crazy helps readers understand how the boys judge each other’s actions as things on the island start to spiral out of control.
What do the creepers mean in Lord of the Flies?
In Lord of the Flies, “creepers” are the long, tangled vines and plants that cover much of the island. The boys often have to push through these creepers as they explore. On a deeper level, the creepers can also symbolize the hidden dangers and darkness on the island, as well as how fear and chaos gradually take hold of the boys.
What does acrid mean in Lord of the Flies?
In Lord of the Flies, “acrid” means something that is sharp, bitter, stinging, or irritating to the taste or smell. Golding uses this word to describe unpleasant sensations—like the harsh smoke from the fire—to help readers feel just how uncomfortable and harsh life on the island can be for the boys.
What is a Cordon in Lord of the Flies?
In Lord of the Flies, a “cordon” refers to a line or circle of people set up to guard or enclose an area. For example, the boys might form a cordon as they search for the beast, creating a barrier or boundary to keep something in or out.
What does batty mean in Lord of the Flies?
In Lord of the Flies, “batty” is British slang that means crazy or eccentric. When the boys call someone “batty,” they’re saying that person is acting strange or out of their mind.
What does pinch mean in Lord of the Flies?
In Lord of the Flies, “pinch” can mean to squeeze or grip something tightly, but it’s also a slang word for stealing. So when the boys talk about pinching something, they might mean taking or stealing it, not just grabbing it with their fingers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when the boys in Lord of the Flies use the word “crackers,” they’re using British slang to call someone crazy or insane. Understanding this bit of slang helps us see why the boys react the way they do and makes it easier to follow the rising tension on the island.