Lois Lowry's The Giver is a poignant coming-of-age story that explores themes of memory, choice, and the complexities of a seemingly utopian society. Jonas's journey, from naive citizen to reluctant revolutionary, is marked by powerful quotes that highlight his emotional and intellectual growth. This exploration delves into key quotes from the novel, providing page numbers (referencing the Houghton Mifflin Harcourt edition) and analyzing their significance within Jonas's transformative experience. Note that page numbers may vary slightly depending on the edition of the book.
"He felt a stirring, a fluttering feeling in his stomach, which he knew well: it meant he was excited" (p. 12).
This early quote establishes Jonas's initial naiveté. His understanding of emotions is limited and easily defined, represented by the simple connection between a physical sensation and the emotion of excitement. This contrasts sharply with the complex emotions he will later grapple with. The "fluttering" feeling foreshadows the significant emotional upheavals to come.
"It was not the same as the feeling he had experienced that day, of seeing the apple change color. This was different; this was deeper." (p. 55)
This quote marks a crucial turning point in Jonas's understanding of the world. The changing apple signifies the existence of true color, a concept hidden from the community. The "deeper" feeling speaks to a burgeoning awareness of the limitations and falsehoods of his seemingly perfect society. He's beginning to comprehend a reality beyond the controlled narrative he's always known.
"Jonas shivered. He felt a deep cold in his own heart; it was cold, sharp, and piercing. He realized he was seeing things as they really were" (p. 83).
This quote underlines Jonas's growing understanding of the true nature of Sameness. The "deep cold" represents the chilling realization of the sacrifices made in the name of conformity and control. The "piercing" quality symbolizes the painful truth penetrating Jonas's previously sheltered world.
"He wished he could explain to them, but the words wouldn't come. He couldn't betray them. And he felt a stirring, a strange new feeling: he felt guilt" (p. 102).
Here, Jonas wrestles with the complexities of keeping his newfound knowledge secret. The inability to find the words underscores the limitations of language in conveying the overwhelming experience of truth. The emergence of "guilt" reveals a profound moral awareness and a sense of responsibility for the community's well-being.
"He had a memory now. He had knowledge now. He had a choice. And he had a profound conviction that he was right" (p. 178).
This quote encapsulates Jonas's final transformation. The accumulation of memories, knowledge, and the weight of his choices have solidified his convictions. He is no longer a passive participant but an active agent in shaping his destiny and potentially the future of his community. He accepts the responsibility for his actions.
"He didn't know if he would be able to live with that guilt, but he had to try." (p. 185)
This concluding quote highlights the lingering weight of his actions and the moral dilemmas he faces. The journey is not over; rather, he is embarking on a new chapter fraught with uncertainty and challenges, demonstrating his courage and commitment to his beliefs.
People Also Ask (PAA) Sections:
What is the most important quote in The Giver? There's no single "most important" quote, as the power of each quote stems from its context within Jonas's journey. However, the quotes about the "deep cold" (p. 83) and the final quote about accepting the responsibility of his choices (p. 185) encapsulate the profound transformation and moral complexities of the narrative.
What are some quotes that show Jonas's changing perspective? The quotes showcasing the changing apple (p. 55), the introduction of guilt (p. 102), and the final realization of his choice and responsibility (pp. 178, 185) vividly portray Jonas's evolving understanding of the world and his place within it.
What are some quotes about memories in The Giver? While not directly quoted, the entire premise of the Giver's role involves passing on memories to Jonas, illustrating the book's central theme. The impact of these memories on Jonas's perception and emotional development is paramount to his transformation and the story's core. The quotes above demonstrate the internal processing of those memories.
This exploration of key quotes, alongside answers to frequently asked questions, provides a deeper understanding of Jonas's transformative journey in The Giver. Each quote serves as a milestone in his intellectual and emotional awakening, highlighting the complexities of the novel's themes.
