What Does Released Mean In The Giver

What Does "Released" Mean in The Giver? A Deep Dive into Lowry's Dystopian World

Lois Lowry's The Giver presents a seemingly utopian society built on a foundation of chilling control. Central to this control is the concept of "release," a word that initially appears innocuous but quickly reveals itself to be a euphemism for a terrifying and ultimately irreversible act. Understanding the true meaning of "release" is crucial to grasping the novel's central themes of freedom, memory, and the complexities of a seemingly perfect society. This article delves deep into the meaning of "release" in The Giver, exploring its evolving connotations throughout the narrative and its profound impact on the characters and the story's overall message.

The Surface Meaning: A Veil of Deception

In the seemingly idyllic community of The Giver, "release" is initially presented as a benign process, a solution to societal problems. Citizens are told that release is a necessary part of maintaining balance and harmony. Older members of the community, those deemed "too old," are "released," as are infants who don't meet the community's standards. This initial portrayal creates a sense of acceptance and even normalcy surrounding death. The carefully cultivated language obfuscates the grim reality, allowing the community to maintain its illusion of peace and order. This carefully constructed ambiguity is a key element of the dystopian control in the book, showing how language can be manipulated to control perception.

The Controlled Narrative and its Impact

The elders control the narrative surrounding release. They carefully craft the language used, ensuring that the act remains shrouded in mystery and euphemism. This allows them to maintain power and control, preventing dissent and maintaining the illusion of a perfect society. It’s a masterful example of propaganda, where the truth is carefully hidden behind a facade of pleasantries. The community members, raised on this carefully controlled narrative, accept the process without question, highlighting the power of indoctrination and the dangers of unquestioning obedience. Children are taught to believe that release is a peaceful transition, free from pain or suffering. This naivete is a key tool used to keep the system running smoothly.

The Unveiling of the Truth: A Gradual Revelation

As Jonas's training progresses, the true meaning of "release" is gradually revealed. He learns from the Giver that release is not a peaceful transition but, in reality, a euphemism for murder. The elders use a lethal injection to eliminate individuals deemed undesirable or inconvenient to the community’s carefully controlled system. This revelation shatters Jonas's worldview and forces him to confront the harsh realities of his seemingly perfect society. The weight of this discovery rests heavily on Jonas, fueling his rebellion and his ultimately desperate attempt to change the system.

The Significance of the Giver's Role

The Giver himself plays a crucial role in unveiling the truth about release. He holds the memories of the past, memories that have been systematically erased from the community's collective consciousness. These memories, including the memory of death and the reality of "release," allow him to show Jonas the true nature of the community's actions. He acts as a critical guide, highlighting the dangers of a society built on lies and the suppression of truth. His role as a keeper of memory emphasizes the importance of preserving history and learning from the past to avoid repeating mistakes. This acts as a crucial plot point that reveals the complete truth, making this a pivotal event in the story.

Release as a Tool of Control

Release isn't simply a method of disposal; it's a powerful tool used by the elders to maintain control over the community. By eliminating anyone who deviates from the norm, who questions the rules, or who possesses qualities deemed undesirable, the elders ensure conformity and suppress dissent. The fear of release hangs over every member of the community, maintaining their docility and obedience. This fear is a powerful mechanism of social control, highlighting the dark side of a society that prioritizes conformity over individuality. The absence of choice and the constant threat of removal acts as a constant reminder of their position within the social order.

The Elimination of Unwanted Qualities

The community eliminates individuals not only for age or perceived defects but also for expressing emotions, possessing unique talents, or showing signs of individuality. The suppression of these characteristics is crucial to maintaining the controlled environment. This highlights the dangers of eliminating diversity and individuality in the pursuit of a supposedly "perfect" society. The community’s fear of the unknown is demonstrated through their reaction to anything considered outside the norm. This is shown through the elimination of those who are deemed a threat to their system.

The Emotional Impact of Release

The true meaning of release carries a significant emotional weight. The novel explores the profound impact of the act, not only on the individuals who are released but also on those left behind. For those who are released, it represents a brutal and irreversible loss of life. For those who witness releases or who live with the constant fear of release, it creates an atmosphere of anxiety and uncertainty. The emotional weight of this understanding adds to the dystopian nature of the story, creating a sense of dread and unease that pervades the entire narrative. This contributes to the overall mood and tone, leaving the reader with a sense of discomfort and unease.

The Psychological Effects on the Community

The constant threat of release creates a society characterized by fear, conformity, and a lack of genuine emotional expression. Individuals suppress their emotions and individuality in order to conform to the norms of the community and avoid becoming targets for release. This creates a psychologically damaging environment where genuine human connection is suppressed. The idea of constant surveillance and the fear of unexpected release contribute greatly to this psychological effect. The constant fear significantly affects the lives of the people living under this system.

Release and the Theme of Choice

The concept of release is intrinsically linked to the theme of choice, or rather, the lack thereof. The community in The Giver operates under a system that removes individual choice, a crucial element of human freedom. The decision to release individuals is made by the elders, without the input or consent of those affected. This removal of choice underscores the dystopian nature of the community and highlights the importance of individual autonomy. The absence of individual choice is a crucial component of the community’s repressive control over its population.

The Rebellion and the Quest for Freedom

Jonas's rebellion against the community and his quest to restore choice and individual freedom are directly connected to his understanding of the true meaning of release. He recognizes that the systematic elimination of individuals is a denial of basic human rights and a fundamental violation of individual freedom. His journey becomes a fight to reclaim choice and autonomy, highlighting the importance of fighting for individual liberty. The climax of the novel is largely shaped by Jonas’s struggle against the system and the limitations placed upon the community by the elders.

Conclusion: The Enduring Power of "Release"

The word "release" in The Giver functions as far more than just a simple term; it is a powerful symbol representing the manipulative power of language, the suppression of individuality, and the chilling consequences of a society that prioritizes conformity over freedom. Its evolving meaning throughout the novel serves to underscore the dystopian elements, reinforcing the central themes and leaving a lasting impact on the reader long after the book is finished. The true meaning of release is a chilling reminder of the importance of preserving individual rights, embracing diversity, and fighting against systems that seek to control and suppress the human spirit. The enduring power of this single word lies in its ability to encapsulate the novel’s core message, making it a pivotal concept in understanding the complexities of Lowry’s dystopian world. Its ambiguity initially, and its later horrific revelation, make it a truly memorable and thought-provoking element of the story.