The Power of Personification in Lord of The Flies

Human beings have long been fascinated with the idea of personifying animals, objects, and even concepts. Personification allows us to relate to and understand these entities in a way that feels familiar and relatable, ascribing human-like qualities and characteristics to them. In the novel “Lord of the Flies” by William Golding, the author utilizes personification to bring various elements to life, conveying deeper meaning and symbolism through his use of language.

Personification of the Island

One of the most notable examples of personification in the novel is the characterization of the island itself. Throughout the story, the island is depicted as a living, breathing entity with its own unique personality and characteristics. We see this in the way that Golding describes the island's “scars” and “wounds” when the boys begin to destroy and pollute it. The island is also described as having a “voice” in several instances, such as when it seems to whisper to Simon in the jungle or when it moans with the wind during storms. By personifying the island in this way, Golding establishes it as a powerful force that is affected by the actions of the boys and plays a significant role in the unfolding of the story.

Personification of the “Beast”

Another example of personification in “Lord of the Flies” is the characterization of the “beast”. From the outset of the story, the boys are terrified of the “beast” that they believe inhabits the island. While the beast is never seen directly, it is described in vivid detail through the imaginations of the boys. The “beast” itself is personified as a monstrous, malevolent force that roams the island, and the boys ascribe to it supernatural powers and abilities. In this case, the personification serves to heighten the sense of fear and dread in the story, and to emphasize the boys' descent into savagery as they become more obsessed with the idea of the beast.

Personification of Nature

Finally, Golding uses personification to characterize the various elements of nature on the island. For example, the waves are described as “dancing” and “laughing” on the shore, while the sun is depicted as a “giant red ball” in the sky. By personifying these natural elements, Golding adds a poetic quality to his writing and creates a vivid, sensory experience for the reader. These descriptions also emphasize the raw, untamed power of nature and its ability to both sustain and destroy life.

In conclusion, personification is a powerful literary device that can be used to convey deeper meaning and symbolism in literature. In “Lord of the Flies”, William Golding uses personification to bring the island itself to life, to characterize the “beast”, and to describe the natural elements of the environment. By doing so, he creates a rich and layered narrative that explores the complexities of human nature and the struggle between civilization and savagery. Through his use of language and imagery, Golding invites us to look beyond the surface of the story and to consider the deeper themes and ideas that lie beneath.