Two separate illustrations of an animal head and a fire on a mountain

Lord of the Flies

by William Golding

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Discussion Topic

Choosing a friend from Lord of the Flies and considering if that choice changes by the end

Summary:

If choosing a friend from Lord of the Flies, many might initially select Ralph for his leadership or Piggy for his intelligence. However, by the end, some may change their choice to Simon, who represents kindness and moral integrity, highlighting the importance of inner virtues over social roles.

Expert Answers

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In Lord of the Flies, which character would you choose as a friend and why?

Of all the boys on the island, I would most like to be friends with Simon. Simon is very intelligent, with bright eyes. He thinks deeply about things and understands things that the other boys don't. He is a good friend to Ralph, helping him explore the island and helping to build huts. He is nice to the little 'uns, helping them pick fruit that is too high for them to reach. And he shares his meat with Piggy when Jack is being mean to him, showing that he is really kind. He has the soul of a poet, and I like poetry. He notices the beautiful candle buds on one of the bushes, and he makes a special hideaway in a thicket. Simon also has faith and is able to encourage others; he tells Ralph he knows he will make it off the island. Simon has spiritual insight that none of the other boys have; he is the only one who understands the importance of morality in making the society work. Spirituality is also very important to me. Mostly, though, I would like to be friends with Simon so that maybe I could have prevented him from being murdered by the other boys.

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