From fear, the knife is used to butcher pigs, and Jack's group becomes the hierarchical hunters. Jack's position as leader of this unruly band is not enough for him, however, and until he and his knife attain sole power, neither will be content.
An interesting, yet ominous portrayal of Jack's conflict between survival, violence, and the lust for power comes in a dialog between Ralph and Jack while on a foraging exploration and they find a well-worn path:
"Men?"
Jack shook his head.
"Animals" (26).
Jack of course, associating the path with savagery, Ralph with possible rescue and civilization. In fact, again and again the two paths of bestiality vs. civilization pull Jack away from the other boys, but also show the nature of divisiveness and conflict within all the boys.
All is not lost, though, the dualism in Jack is again shown in his inability to kill the pig caught in some thorns (Chapter 1). There is still rationality, still humanity, and still a concept of blood and pain. But very shortly thereafter, Jack's transformation occurs and "the frustration claimed him," while he was carrying a spear but could find no prey (49). This bloodlust consumes him to the point which he gives into "the compulsion to track down and kill what was swallowing him up" (51). Bloodlust so deep and pervasive than any moral nature is gone, and he cares for nothing escape the butchery of the pigs, and the resultant scent, color, and spray of the bloodletting.
Jack's character clearly represents a path towards evil, a path towards the darker side of humanity. Jack uses verbal skill, physical intimidation, and fear as techniques of power. He becomes, if you will, the opposite of what he was. He finds no real reason to hold onto his pervious inner checks and balances, lest they control is animal urges which, he seems to believe, are the only manner in which he can survive. Like many fascist leaders, however, Golding seems to remind us that ultimately, outwardly...
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