In this scene, we can see the close connection that Simon enjoys with his immediate environment. While the other boys treat the island as nothing more than a giant adventure playground, Simon develops an almost mystical relationship to the ground beneath his feet. Simon is already set apart from the other boys by his gentle, otherworldly nature; but now, by staying in his own secret little hideout, he's physically separating himself from them as well.
It says a lot about what the others are like that a sensitive soul like Simon needs to go off on his own and be alone in order to appreciate the immense joy and beauty that the natural world has to offer. And there's definitely a paradox here in that Simon is much closer to the natural world than the other boys yet tragically lacks the wherewithal to survive on the island due to his gentle, peace-loving nature.
At the end of chapter 3, Simon isolates himself in a secluded part of the jungle.
The text tells us that, after picking fruit for the "littluns," Simon walks towards the high jungle. Here, the creepers grow thickly and hang "like rigging of foundered ships." Simon walks until he comes to a clearing filled with dark aromatic bushes. He moves past the clearing and makes his way through a thick expanse of creepers and bushes.
The path is laborious, but Simon finally manages to secure himself in the middle of a cabin-like space. From this space, Simon peeks out into the clearing. Satisfied that he is alone, Simon begins to enjoy the natural sounds of the forest and the nearby sea. He revels in the beauty of the flora and fauna around him.
The text tells us that Simon remains in his secret hideout even after the sun sets.
No comments:
Post a Comment