Question

In chapter 2 of "Lord of the Flies", the boys decide to to light a fire in order to be rescued. What is ironic about the consequences of the boys' decision to light the fire? In the light of these consequences, what does the "drum roll" represent? Any help would be appreciated.

Answer 1

So purpose of the fire was to send a signal to anyone on a boat or ship to come rescue the boys. However, later on in the story, someone sets the jungle on fire to kill Ralph. So, the fire was originally intended for good but then was used to do evil.

As for the drum roll, I think it represents chaos and future troubles they will encounter because they have "fallen apart as a society." There is a lot of discord among the boys.

Hopefully this helped and good luck.