When considering Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad, the formalistic approach would seem to be the logical choice for criticism. The story lends itself very well to this approach by virtue of its light and dark contrast, Conrads metaphore for good and evil. As the title suggests there will be a reference to darkness, which not only means an evil but also ignorance in man. The book encompasses many evils but also demonstrates a complete reversal in the good and evil concept; this will be explored thoughtful of not only the light and dark theme, but also metaphors using this relationship. Before analyzing the book it might be helpful to know a few facts about its author, and perhaps gain insight as to why he would choose his themes.
             Joseph Conrad born Jozef Teodor Konrad Nalecz Korzeniowski December 3, 1857 in Poland. Conrad was an only child, his father was a political activist, and when Conrad was four his father was arrested. His mother passed when he was seven and his father when he was ten. He was then passed off to his uncle. There was not much stability to Conrad's youth; a childhood surrounded by turmoil could easily provoke him to consider human nature in the context of good and evil. It is not the intention to burden the reader with a lengthy account of Conrad's youth, however the above facts should be enough to offer an some explanation as to Conrad's view. As a young man, Conrad did participate in a journey to the Congo. This afforded him the opportunity to a similar view as the characters in the book.
             The first point about the light and dark contrast can be made without an introduction to the characters. This can be accomplished with geography alone. The civilized world, portrayed as England, would then represent the light or good. Being civilized does not necessarily mean you are good, but in this representation it is in the beginning portrayed as the good. The Congo in counter point is t...