Book Forty-Three - Lord Of The Flies - Part Two

William Golding
From New York Times

Though I'd never read this book before, I knew the basics. I've heard lots of references to it in popular culture, sort of like American Idol in that most people have heard of it even if they've never watched it. I suppose Game of Thrones is in the same category but with more zealous fans (perhaps that's just the people I know!). That said, I'll stick with the no-spoiler rule and talk in generalities only.

First, OMG! Even though I knew the basic plot it was so far beyond what I thought I was going to encounter. I have questions: would the majority of human beings behave in the same manner? Does age matter? Gender? Country of origin? Would anything have made a difference? I mean, the only example I can think of with any similarities is Gilligan's Island, and they sure didn't act like that.

Also, is it a desert island or a deserted island? The only sand was on the beach and trees and foliage were numerous, so it seems it should have been deserted. But deserted implies that someone was previously there and purposely left. The only thing I'm sure about is that it's entirely possible I'm overthinking this.

One last thought: the last couple of pages contain gorgeous prose. Sheer brilliance.

Book Forty-Three - Lord Of The Flies - Part One

Story about this book which has nothing to do with the book: once upon a time I worked at a place with few local options for dining out at lunch. Co-workers introduced me to a little hole-in-the-wall diner with good food, good service and dodgy electrics. I became a regular, eating alone when no one else from work was going. (Some people have a fear of this, but it's never bothered me. I always have a book.) One day, another regular whom I had seen but not spoken to walked over and asked why I frequently ate alone. I explained that I was surrounded with people eight hours a day and therefore enjoyed a bit of peace and quiet at lunch. He sat down and proceeded to talk. (?) We became friends and regularly ate lunch together. He mostly discussed his family and I mostly discussed books. He frequently talked about Lord of the Flies, the only book he had ever read cover to cover. Can you imagine having read only one book your entire life??? Yet we found other things in common and although neither of us works near that diner these days, we're still Christmas Card Friends.

The End.