Stirrings in The Giver: a Catalyst for Change

Imagine a world where emotions are suppressed, individuality is discouraged, and personal connections are forbidden. This is the dystopian society depicted in Lois Lowry's novel, The Giver. In this seemingly perfect community, known as Sameness, the eradication of emotions plays a crucial role in maintaining control and order. However, the emergence of stirrings, or the reawakening of sexual desires and emotions, challenges the very foundation of this controlled society. Through the exploration of the stirrings in The Giver, this essay aims to analyze the implications of these emotions, their impact on the protagonist Jonas, and the broader themes of individuality and freedom.

The Awakening of Stirrings

The stirrings, as described in The Giver, are the reawakening of sexual desires and emotions in the adolescent citizens of the community. These desires are considered dangerous and disruptive to the Sameness ideology. As Jonas, the main character, experiences these stirrings for the first time, he is filled with confusion and uncertainty. Lowry uses vivid language to describe Jonas's first encounter with the stirrings: "He remembered the first time he had felt the Stirrings himself, waking from a dream of Fiona, that woman who was a Five and who had thick, dark hair that fell to her shoulders" (Lowry, 58). This passage effectively captures the intense and overwhelming nature of the stirrings, highlighting their significance in the narrative.

The emergence of stirrings in Jonas's life acts as a catalyst for change, challenging the conformity and control enforced by the community. As Jonas grapples with these newfound emotions, he begins to question the principles upon which his society is built. Lowry's use of the stirrings as a plot device allows readers to explore the limitations of a strictly controlled society and the importance of individuality and emotional connections.

The Impact of Stirrings on Jonas

As Jonas experiences the stirrings, his perspective on the world around him undergoes a significant transformation. Previously unaware of the existence of emotions, he begins to question the purpose and meaning of his own existence. The stirrings awaken a desire for knowledge and self-discovery within Jonas, leading him to seek answers and challenge the status quo.

Moreover, the stirrings also serve as a catalyst for Jonas's relationship with the Giver, the only other person in the community who possesses knowledge of emotions. The Giver becomes a mentor figure to Jonas, guiding him through the complexities of emotions and the implications they hold for their society. Through the Giver's memories, Jonas gains a deeper understanding of the power and significance of emotions, further fueling his desire for change.

Themes of Individuality and Freedom

The emergence of stirrings in The Giver highlights the importance of individuality and personal freedom. In a society devoid of emotions, citizens are stripped of their uniqueness and forced to conform to a predetermined set of rules and regulations. The stirrings challenge this notion of conformity, emphasizing the inherent need for individuals to express their emotions and desires.

Furthermore, the suppression of emotions in Sameness restricts the citizens from experiencing the full range of human experiences. The stirrings, as a manifestation of these repressed emotions, symbolize the longing for freedom and the right to explore one's own desires. Jonas's journey to embrace the stirrings represents a rebellion against the constraints imposed by society, advocating for individuality and the pursuit of personal happiness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the stirrings in The Giver act as a catalyst for change, challenging the controlled and emotionless society depicted in the novel. Through the exploration of Jonas's experiences with the stirrings, Lowry raises important questions about individuality, freedom, and the significance of emotions in shaping one's identity. The stirrings serve as a powerful symbol of rebellion and self-discovery, inspiring readers to reflect on the importance of embracing their own emotions and desires. By acknowledging the stirrings, Jonas ultimately defies the oppressive nature of Sameness, offering a glimmer of hope for a future filled with personal connections and authentic human experiences.