What is the conch and what does it symbolize?

A conch refers to a large, spiral-shaped seashell that is commonly used as a symbol of power, order, civilization, and authority. It first rose to prominence as a literary symbol in William Golding's 1954 novel, "Lord of the Flies", where it played a pivotal role in the act of governance and decision-making among a group of stranded boys on a deserted island.The conch is initially found by Ralph, one of the boys on the island, and he quickly realizes its potential as a tool for communication and as a way to gather the scattered boys together. As such, the conch becomes a powerful symbol of order and civilization as it helps the boys establish a system of rules and organization in their community.

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