In William Golding’s novel Lord of the Flies, the dead pig, particularly showcased during the scene where Simon discovers the severed head mounted on a stick, symbolizes the inherent evil and savagery within humanity. This grotesque image, often referred to as the “Lord of the Flies,” serves as a powerful representation of the darkness that exists in all humans, a central theme of the book.
Golding chose such a graphic motif for several reasons. Firstly, the visceral nature of the imagery captures the reader’s attention and evokes a strong emotional response. This graphic depiction forces the audience to confront the brutality that emerges when societal norms disintegrate. The pig’s head, swarming with flies, becomes a horrific symbol of decay and moral corruption, embodying the loss of innocence as the boys descend into savagery.
Furthermore, the graphic image serves to highlight the stark contrast between civilization and the primal instincts that lie beneath. Golding’s choice emphasizes that the true beast is not an external monster, but rather the darkness residing in each individual. By presenting this unsettling image, he compels readers to reflect on the human condition and the thin veneer of civilization that, when stripped away, reveals the primal instincts that can lead to chaos and destruction.