I had not read this one since 1969. I remembered that it bristled with symbolism, but had forgotten some of the details, such as the very existence of the sadistic Roger, the real meaning behind the beast on the mountain, and the fact that the Hitler figure Jack was a choirboy in a former life. His first appearance as choirboy-cum-martinet, marching little boys who are in a distinctive but sinister uniform, their choir boy capes, is a memorable one.
This novel has been reviewed and analysed to death, so there is probably little that a layman can add. The concluding pages are still as jarring as ever, when the hideous spell of little boys at war with each other is broken by the arrival of the authority figure, the naval officer.
Points to ponder .... what was the fate of the little boy with the mulberry birthmark and what did he symbolise? Why do we never learn Piggy's real name? Why does Piggy divulge his hated nickname so early, or at all?
Golding's work, unsubtle, but very readable, stands as a depressing monument to the fallibility and frailty of the human condition. Recommended.
8 out of 10.
