Moby Dick

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1. 
   dymatsuoka

   The "most important thing" conveyed by Ralph to all is that

   "We want to have fun.  And we want to be rescued...and of course we shall be rescued...sooner or later a ship will put in here...so you see, sooner or later, we shall be rescued". 

   Ralph makes this assertion to the boys to counteract the influence of Jack, who, by fostering fear of "the beastie" and announcing that he will fight it, appeals to their more primitive nature.  It is a winning strategy in one of the first of a series of confrontations which will ultimately determine whether the boys learn to conduct themselves according to the rules of rationality and civilization or descend into chaos.  In the beginnings of a power struggle of the highest order, Ralph's attempt to present the situation in a more positive light gives him "new authority", and the love and respect of the "assembly".  Ralph instinctively knows that in order to get the cooperation of the boys, he must appear to be able to take care of them and fulfill their basic needs.  Even though his statements are "unbacked by any proof", they achieve the effect of "lift(ing) the assembly towards safety".  By saying what the boys want and need to hear if they are to coexist and survive in a civilized manner, Ralph demonstrates his ability to control the "crowd" and get them to listen to him and cooperate (Chapter 2).

   Sources:

   http://www.enotes.com/flies/chapter-2-summary-analysis

   http://www.enotes.com/flies/themes

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   Posted by dymatsuoka on Wednesday July 2, 2008 at 8:47 AM
   
   

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