Is there a capability for evil in every human being? William Golding answers this question through the use of symbolism, in his novel, Lord of the Flies. Ralph, Jack, Piggy, and the other boys of the choir find themselves stranded on a deserted island. Quickly the island is divided into two sides, the intelligent and logical, and the brave and inhumane. A struggle for power turns into a life or death situation between the two sides, while nothing is being accomplished. Golding uses the symbols of the conch, fire, and Jack, to elaborate, and prove, that we all have the capacity for evil in us.
             The conch brings out both power and callousness in the boys. For example, the boys have called a meeting, using the conch, to discuss the fire on the mountain. Jack insults Piggy, interrupting him at the same time, Piggy retaliates, " 'I got the conch.' Piggy said bleakly." (Golding 40) The conch is supposed to give Piggy power and respect, because the boys agreed it is supposed to be used when someone wants to talk. It is the only thing that gives the meetings any order. This object of order is not being taken seriously. In addition, when Ralph, Piggy, and Samneric go to get the glasses back from Jack, two of their former friends block them, "He put the conch to his lips and began to blow. Savages appeared, painted out of recognition." (175) The conch, that all the boys agreed would represent a boy's time to speak, is calling others to hurt. To Jack, and his followers, it is a signal to fight, and to attack. The conch went from a representation of order to a war-call. Furthermore, when Piggy is trying to yell over Jack, and gain power, Ralph watches, speechless, unable to help Piggy, "By him stood Piggy, still holding the talisman (conch)...the rock struck Piggy a glancing blow from chin to knee; the conch exploded into a thousand white fragments and ceased to exist." (180) The conch ...