Golding's own experiences with the inner darkness of man are clearly reflected in the actions and thoughts of his characters. ... He describes the conditions in the jungle as "Thick- and "Sluggish-. ... This determinism is exhibited as Marlow sits in the jungle, helpless, as he waits for rivets to come to repair his ship. ...
The cruelty and squalor of imperial enterprise contrasts sharply with the impassive and majestic jungle that surrounds the white man's settlements, making them appear to be tiny islands amidst a vast darkness. Marlow arrives at the Central Station, run by the general manager, an unwholesome, conspiratorial character. ... The dense jungle and the oppressive silence make everyone aboard a little jumpy, and the occasional glimpse of a native village or the sound of drums work the pilgrims into a frenzy. Marlow and his crew come across a hut with stacked firewood, together with a note sa...
