Consider 'Lord of the Flies' by William Golding. The plot where the boys on the island descend into savagery as time passes is central to the theme of the inherent evil in human nature. The events that unfold, like the power struggles between Jack and Ralph, and the fear that grips the boys, all contribute to highlighting this theme. The plot line shows how without the constraints of society, human nature can turn dark very quickly.
Well, in many novels, the plot line directly reflects the theme. For example, in 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell, the plot where the pigs gradually take over and become as corrupt as the humans they once rebelled against is a clear illustration of the theme of power corrupting. The plot developments show how the ideals of the revolution are betrayed.
They can start to establish the conflict. For instance, in '1984', the second line might start to introduce the oppressive atmosphere which is a major part of the overall conflict of the individual against the totalitarian state.
Famous first lines often set the mood. For example, the first line of 'The Great Gatsby' - 'In my younger and more vulnerable years my father gave me some advice that I've been turning over in my mind ever since.' It gives a sense of reflection and sets a somewhat nostalgic mood. This mood stays throughout the novel as Nick Carraway looks back on the events of that summer.
The second lines contribute by providing more context. In a historical novel, it might give details about the time period like 'The air was thick with the smell of gunpowder, a remnant of the recent battle.' This helps the reader understand the backdrop. Moreover, it can introduce the conflict. If the first line sets the stage, the second can hint at the problem. In a love story, the second line could say 'But she knew their love was doomed from the start.' This foreshadows the challenges the couple will face.
In some novels, the ending line can be a twist that completely changes how we view the whole story. Consider 'The Sixth Sense' which is based on a novel. The ending line reveals the truth that the main character has been dead all along. This kind of ending line forces the reader to re - evaluate everything they've read before and adds a whole new layer of meaning to the story.
They often sum up the main themes. For example, the last line in '1984' - 'He loved Big Brother.' It drives home the complete subjugation of the individual in the totalitarian society the book depicts. Just a short line but it has a huge impact on the reader's understanding of the horror of that world.
The last lines can seal the deal in terms of the overall impact. For example, if the last line is a cliffhanger, it might make the reader want to reread or think more deeply. In some cases, like in 'To Kill a Mockingbird', the last line 'He turned out the light and went into Jem's room. He would be there all night, and he would be there when Jem waked up in the morning.' gives a sense of Atticus's love and protection for Jem. It adds to the overall warmth and moral message of the book.
Famous first lines often introduce key themes. Consider '1984' starting with 'It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen.' This odd time - keeping immediately hints at the dystopian world where things are not as they should be, introducing the theme of a disrupted and controlled society.
The first lines of her novels often introduce key elements. For instance, they might introduce the setting which is vital for the plot. If it's a big mansion in a remote area, like in some of her works, it sets the stage for a closed - environment mystery. They can also introduce a character's state of mind which can be a driving force in the plot.
One famous plot line is in 'Moby - Dick' by Herman Melville. Captain Ahab is obsessed with hunting the white whale, Moby - Dick, which he sees as the source of all his misfortunes. This single - minded pursuit leads him and his crew on a dangerous and ultimately tragic journey. In 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Bronte, the plot follows the life of Jane, an orphan. She endures a difficult childhood, falls in love with Mr. Rochester, discovers a dark secret about him, and finally finds her own path to happiness.
The famous lines help set the mood. For example, 'Fifteen men on the dead man's chest - Yo - ho - ho, and a bottle of rum!' immediately gives a pirate - like, rowdy and adventurous mood. It makes the reader feel like they are in the middle of a pirate crew.