ch.+4-6+response

1. Why is the fire so important? What might it symbolize?

I believe that the fire is important because it symbolizes the boy's hope of leaving the island. For example, they believe that the smoke from the fire will catch the attention of a passing ship, and then they will be rescued. Ralph was very angry when the fire went out, and it seemed to me like the hope of rescue had disappeared. So, I believe that the fire represents the boy's desire to be rescued, and when the fire went out, their hope was gone as well, until the fire was lit again.