What was the original title of Lord of the Flies? When we think of William Golding’s classic novel, Lord of the Flies is the title that comes to mind. But did you know that Golding originally had a very different name in mind for his story? Before it became known as Lord of the Flies, the manuscript was titled Strangers from Within. In this article, we’ll explore why Golding first chose that title and how the book eventually got its now famous name.
What was the original title of Lord of the Flies?
William Golding’s Lord of the Flies is one of the most recognizable titles in modern literature, but it wasn’t always called that. Golding’s original title for the novel was Strangers from Within. That original title hinted at Golding’s interest in the hidden darkness within each character, which is a theme that appears throughout the whole story.
After submitting the manuscript to several publishers, it was finally accepted by Faber & Faber. The editors believed a different title would better capture the novel’s haunting message, and so it became Lord of the Flies. This new title comes directly from one of the book’s most chilling scenes when Simon confronts the pig’s head on a stick—the “Lord of the Flies”—and realizes:
“Fancy thinking the Beast was something you could hunt and kill!… You knew, didn’t you? I’m part of you?” (Chapter 8)
The change from Strangers from Within to Lord of the Flies gave Golding’s novel a striking, memorable name that perfectly fits its exploration of inner savagery and evil. Knowing about the original title helps us see just how central this idea was to Golding’s vision for his story.
What is the original meaning of Lord of the Flies?
The original meaning of “Lord of the Flies” comes from the biblical tradition, where it refers to Beelzebub, which is another name for Satan. In Hebrew, Beelzebub means “lord of the flies,” and he is seen as a powerful demon who tempts people to do evil. This deeper meaning connects directly to Golding’s novel, which explores the darkness and capacity for evil within human nature.
Conclusion
In conclusion, William Golding’s famous novel almost had a very different identity because Strangers from Within was the original title before it became Lord of the Flies. This early name reflected the story’s focus on the hidden darkness inside each character. The decision to change it gave the novel a more powerful and lasting impact, but knowing about the original title gives us a deeper understanding of Golding’s vision for his haunting tale.