hope/hopelessness

• “The fire was dead… The fire was right out, smokeless and dead"


  • fire is a symbol of hope and rescue. It represents the boys’ desire to maintain a link to civilization and signal to the outside world.
  • When the fire is described as “dead”, it suggests that this hope has been extinguished — literally and metaphorically.
  • contrast to earlier when ralph said "we must make a fire"
• “What are we? Humans? Or animals? Or savages?” – Piggy 


  • piggy is the voice of reason and intellect, often linked to adult authority and societal structure.
  • His question reflects his dismay and fear, knowing that the rules he values are being ignored.
  • foreshadows the collapse of civilisation on the island — soon after, Piggy is killed, and the conch is destroyed.