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About this quote

What does it mean?
Ralph questions the purpose of a sharpened stick, hinting at its violent use.
In plain terms
What is the point of making a sharp weapon like that?
What can you take from it?
Weapons often signal a shift towards conflict.

Where it applies

  • preparing for conflict
  • questioning motives
  • tool use

Putting it to work

  • inspect tools for intent
  • assess threats

Questions to consider

  • What do tools say about intentions?
  • How do objects gain meaning?

Another view

It ignores the practical need for tools in survival.

More from William Golding

  1. His [Ralph's] temper broke. He screamed at Jack. 'You're a beast and a swine and a bloody, bloody, thief!' He charged. Jack, knowing this was the crisis, charg…

    Permalink to quote #28
  2. What was the sensible thing to do? There was no Piggy to talk sense. There was no solemn assembly for debate nor dignity of the conch.

    Permalink to quote #30
  3. 'Kill the beast! Cut his throat! Spill his blood! Do him in!'

    Permalink to quote #27

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