In William Golding's Lord of the Flies, his personal experiences influence the style, structure, and content of the novel. The dystopian fiction novel follows a group of boys stranded on a deserted island. For a brief time, system and order are established; however, civilization descends into savagery. Having faced the struggles of young adulthood and served in the Navy during the peak of WWII, Golding encountered the disturbing thoughts, actions, and consequences that result from the cruel nature of humanity. Lord of the Flies demonstrates the significance of an author’s background by reflecting Golding’s beliefs as a novelist, revealing Piggy’s femininity, and imbuing a pessimistic tone. The novel captivates readers with its mysteriousness …show more content…
Specifically, Piggy possesses traits that are typically associated with femininity; these traits reflect Golding's views. After his experience in the British Navy, Golding “‘developed a sympathy with men’ that crossed ‘gender boundaries’” (Saavedra carballido 150). At the outset of the novel, he “waited to be asked his name in turn but this proffer of acquaintance was not made” (Golding 3). Piggy is not a leader but a follower. His immediate submission to Ralph makes it clear that he is passive and vulnerable, traits thought to be more feminine. Later on, he allows Ralph to “call the others” with the conch despite Piggy being the person who found it (Golding 20). Once again, Piggy gives all the power to Ralph, showing his physical weakness and incapability to lead. Golding’s perspective on gender roles has profoundly impacted Piggy’s …show more content…
Throughout his literary works, he explores the “treacherous destructive forces” that reside within all of us (Doering 288). The dreary tone evinces Golding’s pessimistic perception of human nature. This tone can be expected from a person who has spent “a night in a trench during the bombing of Portsmouth” and been through countless other horrific events (Wade 520). Watching the “gutted carcass” of the pig, the boys chanted, “‘Kill the pig. Cut her throat. Spill her blood’” (Golding 96). The word choice sets the ominous scene for the sacrificial chants, displaying the bestial tendencies of man—a complete reversal of civilization. In Golding’s young adulthood, he experimented with relationships. His violent impulses “‘wanted [him] to punish and dominate’” his partner (Saavedra carballido 150). Following the success of the sow hunt, Roger began sexually abusing the sow’s corpse using a spear (Golding 195). Golding’s feelings may have led him to write the scene with such vivid detail since he recognises the frustrations from his past; he knows how it feels firsthand. The numerous, harrowing experiences in Golding’s life have shaped the atmosphere of the