What does the platform symbolize in Lord of the Flies? If you’re reading Lord of the Flies, you’ll notice that certain places on the island take on special meaning as the story unfolds. One important spot is the platform, where the boys gather for meetings and try to organize themselves. In this article, we’ll explore what the platform symbolizes in Lord of the Flies and why it matters to the novel’s bigger themes about civilization and order.
What does the platform symbolize in Lord of the Flies?
In Lord of the Flies, the platform symbolizes civilized order and governance among the boys. It’s the place where they hold meetings, make decisions, and try to organize themselves just like they would back home. Golding describes it as “the great platform of pink granite thrust up uncompromisingly through forest and terrace and sand and lagoon,” creating a clear spot for assembly. The conch is often used there to signal who has the right to speak, giving the platform a sense of structure and democracy. As the story goes on and civilization breaks down, the importance of the platform fades, showing how their sense of order is slipping away. The platform stands for their attempt at maintaining rules and cooperation in a world that quickly becomes chaotic.
What is the quote about the platform in Lord of the Flies?
A quote that describes the platform in Lord of the Flies is: “a great platform of pink granite thrust up uncompromisingly through forest.” This line helps set the scene for where the boys hold their meetings and highlights the platform’s importance as a place of order and organization.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the platform in Lord of the Flies stands as a powerful symbol of civilized order and governance. It’s where the boys try to maintain structure and make decisions together. As their society breaks down, the fading importance of the platform reflects their loss of order and descent into chaos.