In Joseph Conrad's "Lord Jim," the character of youth is depicted as unabashedly bold and defiant. It embodies a natural inclination to assert itself, reflecting a fundamental aspect of growing up. This audacity is not merely a personal trait, but a vital necessity that allows young individuals to navigate a world filled with uncertainties. Their challenges and rebellions serve as a form of necessary self-expression that confronts the doubts that often surround them.

This assertion of youth often comes across as insolence, but it is an essential part of their development. By standing firm in their convictions, young people explore their identities and place in the world. Conrad captures this struggle, illustrating how such defiance, while seemingly arrogant, is a key component of the youthful experience, ultimately serving as a catalyst for personal growth and understanding amidst life's complexities.