Lord of the Flies

Question: read the following

What is the symbolic meaning of the shattered conch?

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The conch always held great significance. It was a symbol of civilization; it meant democracy, order and decency. This was all the more vital to Piggy who continually cradles it amidst the destruction and chaos on the island. Boy's like Piggy need some semblance of order to exist. As the conch's symbolic meaning for "democracy" erodes, so does any chance of survival or redemption for the boys. It is apt that Golding destroys the conch at the same time as Piggy. The item that recalled civilization for the boys is destroyed along with the smart and gentle Piggy.