Lord of the Flies ch8

1/15/14 Lord of the Flies ch8

Summary: The boys are split into two groups: the hunters, with Jack as the leader, and all the rest under the command of Ralph. The hunters kill a boar, and put its head on a stick, as a symbol of their clan. Ralphs group are starting to make way towards Jacks group because of the food they offer. Because of dehydration, all the boys on the island start to suffer from hallucinations and faintness; like Simon, who shared a nice talk with the dead boars head, or “Lord of the Flies”. Ralph is having trouble keeping his mind on track, due to the sudden abandonment of the hunters, but with Piggy by his side he is able to get back on track.

Quote: “ ‘What about my hunters?’

‘Boys armed with sticks’”

Sig. of Quote: Ralph had pointed out what the hunters are: kids. Kids who have the opportunity to kill and hunt, but they aren't the real deal. According to Ralph, they're not as mighty and dangerous as they set out to be. He knows what they really are, as said in the quote, “Boys armed with sticks”.

Reflection: With the new found Lord of the Flies, and the split of boys, Ralph and Simon have also both started to endure changes. Ralphs leadership is starting to fade, for he has lost confidence in himself after the split. His self confidence and high chest are slumping down as Jacks alter ego is going through the roof. All the littluns all want to join Jacks group; for they have the food. Food to a little boy on a deserted island might be the only thing they will want, and they don't understand how important the fire is. The split is the worst thing they could have done.

Simon on the other hand, does not concern himself with the decision of food over fire, for he has his own problems. It may be the dehydration, but Simon is starting to go kinda crazy… Talking to a dead boar is never good, especially if they start having a conversation. The end of the chapter, where Simon is getting swallowed up by the darkness of the boars mouth; that could be foreshadowing of a death in the nearby future.