Symbolism Essay

This essay is going to talk about symbolism in Lord of the Flies. I’ve decided to write about fire because it seems to have deep meaning in the novel. Fire showed them a way to survive, possible rescue, and warmth on the deserted island. Fire always gave them hope to move forward. It made them feel like they had reason to go another day.
First, fire was a form of necessary survival that everyone on the island needed. In order to cook the food they had captured, they needed a fire. Thanks to Piggy’s glasses, they had successfully made one. The fire was something that needed to be tended to and constantly watched. For a bunch of kids who were dropped on a deserted island, they were doing a good job of keeping things together.
Fire was also a way to help them find possible rescue. The fire would send off smoke and passing ships and planes would see this, telling them there’s people on the island. This was their only real way to send off a signal of distress. “Put on Green branches,” Said Maurice, “That’s the best way to make smoke”, (Pg. 42, Golding) The more smoke they made, the better their chances of rescue.
Last, but not least important, fire was a form of warmth and protection. Fire would scare away wild animals and keep them warm no matter how cold it was. As long as they were near the fire, they didn’t have to fear attack by a wild animal. It was something that kept them safe and gave them a sense of security. Even if this sense of security was false.
I hope now, after reading my essay, you realize why I chose fire as my example of symbolism. Without it, they would not have been able to eat, send signals to passing boats, or stay warm. All of which are the basic essentials on a deserted island. In conclusion, fire is very important, and in my opinion, necessary to survive.