What Does Being Released Mean In The Giver

What Does Being Released Mean in The Giver? A Deep Dive into Meaning and Symbolism

Lois Lowry's The Giver is a chilling dystopian novel that explores themes of societal control, individual freedom, and the importance of memory and emotion. A key concept central to understanding the novel's chilling reality is the act of "release." While seemingly simple on the surface, the true meaning of release in The Giver is multifaceted and profoundly disturbing, revealing the dark underbelly of the seemingly utopian community. This article delves deep into the meaning of release, exploring its evolving significance throughout the novel and its symbolic implications within the context of the story's larger themes.

The Surface Meaning: A Veil of Deception

Initially, the act of release is presented as a benevolent solution to societal problems. Citizens are told that release is a peaceful and painless transition to "Elsewhere," a vaguely defined place described as better than their current community. This seemingly compassionate explanation masks the horrific truth. The community uses release as a means of controlling its population, eliminating those deemed undesirable or inconvenient to their rigid societal structure. This carefully crafted narrative is a cornerstone of the community's control, preventing dissent and maintaining the illusion of a perfect, harmonious society. The carefully controlled language surrounding release – often described as a "release ceremony" – aims to sanitize the act, obscuring its truly sinister nature.

The Elders' Authority and the Illusion of Choice

The Elders, the governing body of the community, hold absolute power over the decision of who gets released. This power, cloaked in the guise of wise and benevolent decision-making, strips individuals of their agency. The community’s acceptance of this authority highlights the insidious nature of their control. There's no true choice, no recourse against the Elders’ judgment. This controlled narrative reinforces the community's acceptance of release as a necessary, even positive, aspect of their society.

Unraveling the Horrific Truth: Release as Euphemism

As Jonas progresses through his training with the Giver, the horrifying reality of release is gradually revealed. The Giver shares the truth: release is not a peaceful transition to Elsewhere; it is, in fact, euthanasia. The community uses release as a method to eliminate individuals who pose a threat, whether through deviance, emotional outbursts, or simply being considered a burden. This revelation shatters Jonas's understanding of his community and its seemingly idyllic existence.

The Significance of Euphemism in Maintaining Control

The community's use of euphemism to describe release is crucial to its success in maintaining control. By substituting a gentler term for a brutal act, the community avoids confronting the harsh reality of its actions. This linguistic manipulation demonstrates the pervasive control exerted over not just the physical lives of its citizens, but also their very perception of reality. The language itself becomes a tool of oppression.

Release as a Tool of Social Control

The true meaning of release extends beyond mere population control; it functions as a powerful instrument of social engineering. By eliminating individuals deemed "unfit," the community maintains its artificial sense of sameness and stability. Emotional expression, individuality, and independent thought are suppressed through the threat of release. This fear becomes a tool to enforce conformity and eliminate any potential challenges to the community's rigid structure.

Examples of Release as Social Control:

• Twins: One twin is routinely released to maintain population control and prevent the disruption of their carefully planned social order. This act highlights the community's prioritization of order over individuality and the inherent value of human life.
• The Old: Elderly individuals, who are no longer considered productive members of society, are released, illustrating the community's callous disregard for the elderly and the value of life experience.
• Those Who Deviate: Individuals who display emotions, question the established norms, or simply do not conform to the community's expectations are subject to release, thereby reinforcing the community’s intolerance for difference and dissent.

The Symbolic Significance of "Elsewhere"

The ambiguous nature of "Elsewhere" adds another layer of complexity to the meaning of release. "Elsewhere" serves as a comforting lie, a fantasy that softens the harsh reality of death. This fictional location functions as a powerful symbol of hope and escape, simultaneously masking the brutal truth of the community’s actions and further solidifying their control. The uncertainty surrounding "Elsewhere" prevents any questioning of the true nature of release, keeping the citizens complacent and accepting of the system.

Release and the Suppression of Memory and Emotion

The release process is intimately tied to the community's suppression of memory and emotion. By eliminating individuals who experience or express intense emotions, the community safeguards its artificial state of sameness and prevents the emergence of independent thought. The suppression of memory is equally crucial, as memories hold the potential to challenge the established order and prompt individuals to question the status quo.

The Giver's Role and the Weight of Memory

The Giver, burdened by the memories of the past, understands the true cost of the community's suppression of memory and emotion. His role reveals the tragic consequence of a society that prioritizes order and sameness over individual experience and genuine human connection. His willingness to share these memories with Jonas is a pivotal act of rebellion, a final act to attempt to change the dystopian landscape he has known his entire life.

Release as a Catalyst for Change

Despite its horrific nature, release paradoxically acts as a catalyst for change in the novel. Jonas's understanding of the true meaning of release sparks his rebellion against the community. This realization fuels his decision to escape and challenge the system, even at great personal risk. His flight, then, represents a rejection of the community's oppressive control and a powerful statement against the dehumanization inherent in the practice of release.

The Lasting Impact of Release: A Reflection on Human Value

The concept of release in The Giver compels readers to confront the implications of societal control and the devaluing of human life. The novel serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the dangers of suppressing individuality, emotion, and memory. The brutal reality of release forces the reader to grapple with fundamental questions about human rights, the importance of diversity, and the ethical implications of societal control. The chilling imagery and emotional impact of release remain long after the book is finished, prompting readers to contemplate the fragility of human life and the importance of preserving individual liberty.

Conclusion: Beyond the Literal

Ultimately, the meaning of "release" in The Giver transcends its literal definition. It symbolizes the dangers of unchecked power, the suppression of individuality, and the importance of memory and emotion in shaping a meaningful human experience. It is a potent reminder of the fragility of freedom and the constant vigilance required to safeguard human rights and dignity against the insidious forces of oppression. The chilling reality of release underscores the novel's enduring relevance as a cautionary tale, prompting readers to reflect upon the importance of preserving the full spectrum of human experience and safeguarding against the dehumanizing effects of societal control.