The article discusses some of the different approaches in
interpreting Lord ofthe Flies and puts forward a new view based on the
stylistic and structural effects of the use of mystery. This factor is
analysed from the various perspectives of vegetation, darkness, silence
and noise, and fear of the unknown. An assessment of the use of
mystery is given in relation to the symbolic message of the novel, the
technique of the detective story, and the role of the narrator.
