Apple Symbolism in The Giver

Throughout Lois Lowry's novel, The Giver, the apple serves as a powerful symbol that represents various themes and ideas. This essay explores the significance of the apple in the story, shedding light on its symbolic meaning and the implications it holds for the characters and the larger dystopian society. By examining key moments in the text where the apple appears, we can gain a deeper understanding of its symbolism and its relevance to the overarching themes of memory, knowledge, and the pursuit of a utopian society.

The Apple as a Symbol of Forbidden Knowledge

One of the primary interpretations of the apple in The Giver is its representation of forbidden knowledge. In the Garden of Eden, the apple was the fruit from the Tree of Knowledge, and its consumption led to humanity's expulsion from paradise. Similarly, in The Giver, the apple symbolizes the pursuit of knowledge that challenges the restrictive and controlled world of the community.

When Jonas receives his first memory from the Giver, it is in the form of an apple. The narrator describes the experience by saying, "He looked at the apple, then at the Giver. Suddenly he knew that they could look at each other and not use words. They had, for a while, transcended language" (Lowry, 57). This moment represents the power of knowledge to connect individuals beyond verbal communication and suggests that the apple, in this context, serves as a catalyst for Jonas's awakening.

Furthermore, the apple reappears when Jonas shares a memory of it with his friend, Asher. Jonas describes the apple as "red and firm and so juicy it filled his mouth with its sweet taste" (Lowry, 116). The vivid description of the apple evokes a sense of pleasure and desire, highlighting the allure of knowledge and experiences that have been suppressed in the community. By sharing this memory, Jonas challenges the norm and encourages Asher to question the limitations imposed upon them.

The apple's symbolism as forbidden knowledge is further reinforced when Jonas and the Giver discuss the possibility of sharing memories with the rest of the community. The Giver warns Jonas about the consequences, stating, "They can't go back to the way they were. Before your time, before the previous time, back and back and back. We gained control of many things. But we had to let go of others" (Lowry, 123). Here, the apple represents the forbidden fruit of knowledge that, if consumed by the community, would disrupt the carefully crafted control maintained by the Elders.

The Apple as a Symbol of Individuality and Rebellion

Beyond its association with forbidden knowledge, the apple in The Giver also symbolizes the individuality and rebellion that exist within the characters. In a society where sameness is valued and conformity is enforced, the apple stands as a reminder of the uniqueness and diversity that have been suppressed.

When Jonas shares the memory of the apple with his friend Fiona, he notices her hair change color, an indication of her individuality. The narrator describes her hair as "a shining, shimmering bronze that hung down her back" (Lowry, 87). Fiona's reaction to the memory suggests that she, too, desires to break free from the constraints of the community and embrace her individuality.

Furthermore, the apple symbolizes rebellion when Jonas makes a radical decision to leave the community. Before his departure, he leaves an apple behind in his dwelling, signifying his defiance and his refusal to conform to the limitations imposed upon him. The presence of the apple serves as a reminder that Jonas is willing to risk everything to pursue a life of individuality and freedom, even if it means leaving behind his loved ones.

The Apple as a Symbol of Loss and Sacrifice

In addition to its associations with forbidden knowledge and individuality, the apple in The Giver also symbolizes loss and sacrifice. In the novel, memories of pain and suffering are transferred through the apple, reminding the characters of the sacrifices that have been made to maintain the illusion of a utopian society.

When Jonas receives the memory of war, the apple is used to convey the sense of loss and tragedy associated with it. The narrator describes the memory by saying, "Suddenly he was aware with certainty and joy that below, ahead, they were waiting for him; and that they were waiting, too, for the baby. For the first time, he heard something that he knew to be music. 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" (Lowry, 135). The apple in this context represents the loss and sacrifice of war, and the bittersweet nature of the memories that Jonas carries.

Furthermore, the apple symbolizes the sacrifice Jonas makes when he decides to leave the community. By leaving, Jonas not only sacrifices his relationships and the comfort of his familiar world but also bears the burden of carrying the collective memories of the community. The apple, therefore, serves as a reminder of the sacrifices that have been made and the weight that Jonas must bear in his pursuit of a better society.

Conclusion

The apple symbolism in The Giver is rich and multi-layered, representing forbidden knowledge, individuality, rebellion, and loss. Through the various instances where the apple appears in the text, we gain insights into the characters' desires for a more meaningful existence and their willingness to challenge the oppressive nature of the community. The apple serves as a reminder that knowledge and individuality are essential for a fulfilling life, and that the pursuit of a utopian society requires sacrifice and courage. By exploring the deeper meanings of the apple in The Giver, we can reflect on our own society and the importance of preserving individuality and embracing knowledge.

Bibliography

Lowry, Lois. The Giver. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 1993.