- Ralph, the main character, is chosen first as leader. If he has the soul, however it lacks a real thinking and oratorical presence. He is the supporter of law enforcement and a common solidarity to keep the fire burning, so that it produces smoke, only means of communication with potential ships, seeing their signal could rescue . After, he will choose to act according to his own convictions, and act like an adult and civilized being, rather than indulge in childhood and depravity by the return to the rule.
- Piglet, meanwhile, has speech and intelligence that are lacking in Ralph, but not the appearance and physical strength, so no vis-à-vis credibility of other boys. He wears glasses, an important element of the story, since they can be used to relight the fire.
- Jack finally lacks the prestige of Piglet in speaking, but has in hand a well known card to become a leader: fear. He rebels against the rapidly civilized system of Jack and Piglet, gathering around him a group of "hunters", first tired of not nourish that offered fruits yet the forest in abundance, wanting meat. This demarcation vis-à-vis Ralph although it had been chosen as an honest leader is a refusal to continue to live by the rules of the "big", these adults who forced them from birth especially at the military school. Through what he considers as a game, it is the image of a return to the age of the fittest, and bestiality.
This book shows how the Force and Fear (personified by Jack) oppose Reason (which Piglet is the figure). We find the birth of the religion through fear of "monster" (who are given the offerings), and the refusal of dialogue, therefore of democracy, etc.
Life, death, humanity, civilization, community, democracy, childhood, maturity, everything is covered in this book rather short, yet full of meaning.
