together and determines who has the right to speak, depending on who is holding it at the time. It can be seen as a representation of law and order amongst the boys, as it unites them and prevents chaos from arising. As the book progresses, however, characters like Jack and his hunters put less and less importance in the sensibility and order in the concept of the conch, and finally disregard it altogether as chaos erupts over the island. This symbolizes the struggle of civilization and savagery, as Jack's hatred of Piggy and Ralph grows and he and his boys resort to primal urges like hunting and killing. An example of this can be seen in the discourse between Piggy and the rest of the boys near the end of the story : "I got this to say. You're acting like a crowd of kids." The booing rose and died again as Piggy lifted the white, magic shell. "Which is better - to be a pack of painted Indians like you are, or to be sensible like Ralph is?" A great clamor rose among the savages. Piggy shouted again. "Which is better - to have rules and agree, or to hunt and kill?" Again the clamor and again - "Zup!" Raplh shouted against the noise. "Which is better, law and rescue, or hunting and breaking things up?" Hence Jack and his hunters' disregard for the conch and Ralph and Piggy's common sensibility shows that they have become uncivilized and savage. Along with the concept behind the conch is the symbolism of the fire. It remains the boys' only means of rescue from the island, and can be seen as hope and also as the representation of common sense. Fire is a component of nature and a tool used by man for multiple purposes. The knowledge to create and use it effectively separates humans from animals. Therefore the creation of fire in the beginning of the story is representational of civilized thought. However, the concept of fire can be seen in yet a different light when it spreads out of control and burns down an enormous pa...
