Throughout the novel Conrad constantly utilizes the images of light and dark and uses them to mold a vision, which the reader is then able to use to decipher the literal and metaphorical meanings of the novel. ... This aspect provides for the metaphorical ways of interpreting the novel. The novel opens on the deck of a large sailing vessel called the Nellie. ... The setting would not be such a significant factor of the novel if it weren't combined with the symbolic images located within the setting. ... The novel is densely composed with much symbolism. ...

• Word Count: 4389
• Approx Pages: 18
• Grade Level: High School

Conrad's novel, Heart of Darkness, is a complex narrative that challenges the reader on several levels. On one level, this book can be read as a story about Charlie Marlow's (the novel's protagonist) journey to discover his inner self, or as a commentary on human identity in general. ... The novel begins with Charlie Marlow, along with a few of his friends, sailing aboard the Nellie, a pleasure boat, at the mouth of the Thames outside London. ... At this stage of the novel, Marlow's interests start to change from the mysterious Congo River to the intriguing Kurtz. ...

• Word Count: 4081
• Approx Pages: 16
• Grade Level: High School

William Golding's own experiences with a devastated world led in part to the dark picture of humanity painted in his novel. ... The impressionist movement greatly inspired Conrad and led to the vivid language used to create the deeply disturbed tone of the novel. ...

• Word Count: 4223
• Approx Pages: 17
• Grade Level: High School