What Does The Ocean Symbolize in Lord of The Flies?

In William Golding's novel, Lord of the Flies, the ocean serves as a powerful symbol that represents both the destructive and redemptive aspects of human nature. Throughout the text, the ocean is depicted as a force of chaos and violence, reflecting the characters' descent into savagery. However, it also represents a glimmer of hope and a potential for salvation. By exploring the various ways in which the ocean is symbolized in the novel, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complex themes and ideas Golding presents. This essay will analyze the multifaceted symbolism of the ocean in Lord of the Flies, highlighting its significance in the narrative and shedding light on the human condition.

The Ocean as a Catalyst for Savagery

One of the key ways in which the ocean symbolizes the destructive aspects of human nature is through its role as a catalyst for savagery. As the boys find themselves stranded on the deserted island, the ocean surrounds them, cutting them off from civilization and exposing them to the harsh realities of survival. The vastness and unpredictability of the ocean mirror the vastness and unpredictability of their own inner darkness. The ocean becomes a symbol of the boys' isolation and their journey into savagery.

For instance, when the boys first arrive on the island, they are initially excited and optimistic about their new surroundings. However, as they spend more time on the island, the ocean begins to instill fear and unease in them. Golding describes the ocean as "dark blue," "endless," and "terrible," highlighting its ominous and foreboding nature. This imagery creates a sense of impending doom and suggests that the ocean is a force that will ultimately lead to their downfall.

Furthermore, the ocean serves as a reminder of the boys' inability to escape their savage impulses. Despite their attempts to establish rules and maintain order, the ocean constantly threatens to consume them and erode their fragile civilization. This is evident in the scene where Simon is brutally murdered by the other boys. As his lifeless body is carried away by the tide, the ocean becomes a silent witness to their act of brutality, emphasizing the boys' descent into savagery and their disconnection from the moral constraints of society.

The Ocean as a Source of Redemption

Despite its association with savagery, the ocean also symbolizes a glimmer of hope and redemption throughout the novel. It represents a potential source of salvation for the boys, offering them the opportunity to escape the darkness within themselves and return to civilization.

One way in which the ocean symbolizes redemption is through its cleansing and purifying qualities. After Simon's death, the boys are left with a sense of guilt and remorse. They are haunted by their actions and the knowledge of their own capacity for evil. In this moment of despair, the ocean becomes a symbol of renewal and rebirth. It is described as a "cool bath" that cleanses their souls and offers them a chance at redemption. The boys are drawn to the ocean, seeking solace and forgiveness in its vast expanse.

Moreover, the ocean represents a glimmer of hope and the possibility of rescue. Throughout the novel, the boys desperately look out to sea, hoping to catch sight of a passing ship or plane. The ocean becomes a symbol of their longing for rescue and a return to civilization. It represents their desire to escape the savagery and violence that has consumed them. In this sense, the ocean serves as a beacon of hope, reminding the boys that there is still a chance for redemption and a return to a more civilized existence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the ocean in Lord of the Flies serves as a powerful symbol that encapsulates the complex themes and ideas presented in the novel. It represents both the destructive and redemptive aspects of human nature, reflecting the characters' descent into savagery while also offering a glimmer of hope and the potential for salvation. By exploring the multifaceted symbolism of the ocean, we gain a deeper understanding of the human condition and the fragile balance between civilization and savagery. Ultimately, the ocean serves as a reminder of the inherent darkness within us all and the constant struggle to maintain our humanity in the face of adversity.

Bibliography

Golding, William. Lord of the Flies. Faber and Faber, 1954.