The term “impalpable,” when considered in the context of William Golding’s Lord of the Flies, refers to qualities or entities that are difficult to perceive or grasp, either physically or mentally. The adjective describes something that cannot be easily touched or felt, and by extension, something that is subtle or elusive in nature. For example, the growing fear among the boys in the novel, or the slow erosion of their civility, can be described as an impalpable force gradually taking hold.
Its significance lies in its ability to describe abstract concepts that are central to the narrative. The loss of innocence, the descent into savagery, and the ever-present but often unseen influence of primal instincts are all impalpable elements that drive the plot and shape the characters’ actions. These intangible forces, though not physically present, exert a powerful influence, leading to the tragic events that unfold on the island. Understanding this concept is vital to grasping the novel’s deeper themes about human nature and the fragility of civilization.
