Lord of the Flies | Quotes

The older boys, other than Piggy, are excited to be without grownups. As the story goes on and the situation deteriorates, Ralph and his crew wish for adult supervision.

Jack's willingness to accept rules at the beginning shows how far he falls later.

Ralph and Jack represent two dramatically different sides—civilization and savagery. When the boys first meet, they enjoy each other's company. However, as time passes, their true natures come out, and they do not understand each other.

Jack's descent into savagery means removing himself from civilization. The face paint helps him feel liberated and allows him to explore his true nature.

Jack and the other hunters chant these words while they are hunting. It is indicative of their bloodlust.

Piggy is a rationalist. He does not allow himself to believe in anything he cannot conceive. However, he knows people can do awful things.

Simon shows insight into the human character that is beyond his years. The boys do not understand his meaning.

The pig's head, the Lord of the Flies, confirms Simon's earlier insight and encapsulates the author's view on humanity—people all have the beast, or evil, within them.

Piggy remains convinced that reason and logic can be applied in any situation and with any person. He is blind to the fact that Jack and his group are now behaving according to a different set of rules.

When the boys are found by the naval officer, Ralph loses any remaining self-control. He recognizes how far the boys have fallen and the evil that is within man. The thought drives him to tears.