The Giver: Quotes

1. “We really have to protect people from wrong choices.”

Analysis

Jonas speaks these words in Chapter 13. Notably, this utterance is preceded by Jonas saying that he wished colors existed and that people could have the pleasure and freedom of choosing between them. After giving it some thought, he realizes that if people were granted this simple freedom, they would then also expect the freedom to choose their careers, spouses, etc. At this point, the ways of the community are still ingrained in him, and he is unable to see the flaws inherent in such a philosophy. However, as time passes, he understands the value of individuality and upholds everyone’s right to make their own decisions. Unable to bear the oppressive structure of the community, he decides to flee toward the end.

2. “There’s nothing we can do. It’s always been this way. Before me, before you, before the ones who came before you. Back and back and back.”

Analysis

Jonas says this in Chapter 20, out of bitterness and despair at the Giver’s rather encouraging suggestion that the two of them might be able to devise a plan to return the memories to the community. He feels it is impossible to bring about any change in the community since its values are so ingrained in the residents. In this instance, Jonas feels that even if he and the Giver attempted to change the community, they would ultimately fail.

3. “He heard people singing. Behind him, across vast distances of space and time, from the place he had left, he thought he heard music too. But perhaps it was only an echo.”

Analysis

These are the concluding words of The Giver. Music, something Jonas has been unfamiliar with till now, is a symbol of hope and joy. It signals that things may change for the better. However, since the novel’s ending is ambiguous, some readers might want to interpret this as an “echo,” perhaps a call for return from Jonas’ former community. It could also be music from Elsewhere, which is willing to accept Jonas and Gabriel. A third possibility is that Jonas could be hearing the music as he and Gabriel freeze to death upon the sled. In keeping the ending ambiguous, Lowry is making an important point. She is emphasizing the need to nurture individuality.