This question is based on Literary Appreciation 'But there was a stillness about Ralph as he sat that marked him out: there was his size and attractive appe...

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In the passage above, the conch symbolizes authority. It is presented as a delicate and powerful object that sets Ralph apart from the other boys. The fact that it was blown by the being who sat waiting for them on the platform, and the way it is balanced delicately on his knees, suggests that it is a symbol of order and control. The conch is used to call the boys together and is a symbol of the power to speak and be heard. This reinforces the idea that it is a symbol of authority, as the ability to call people together and have them listen is a key aspect of leadership.