Symbolism in The Giver: The Meaning of The Apple

Imagine living in a world where emotions are suppressed, memories are erased, and individuality is discouraged. This is the dystopian society depicted in Lois Lowry's novel, The Giver. In the midst of this colorless and controlled existence, symbols emerge to convey deeper meanings and challenge the status quo. One such symbol is the apple, which appears multiple times throughout the text, hinting at themes of forbidden knowledge, the loss of innocence, and the power of personal choice. By examining the symbolism of the apple in The Giver, we can gain insight into the profound messages hidden within the narrative.

The Forbidden Fruit: Knowledge and Curiosity

One of the most well-known biblical stories is that of Adam and Eve and the forbidden fruit. In this tale, the apple symbolizes knowledge and the consequences of seeking forbidden knowledge. Similarly, in The Giver, the apple serves as a symbol of forbidden knowledge and curiosity. In the society depicted, the citizens are shielded from the memories and emotions of the past. They are devoid of knowledge about the world beyond their controlled community. However, the apple represents the temptation to know more, to explore beyond the boundaries set by the community leaders.

At the beginning of the novel, Jonas, the protagonist, is offered an apple by his friend Asher during their free time. This seemingly innocent act holds deeper significance. The apple represents the desire for knowledge and the curiosity that lies within Jonas. It is a subtle rebellion against the restrictive nature of the society that seeks to control every aspect of its citizens' lives. In this way, the apple serves as a reminder that curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge are inherently human traits, and they cannot be suppressed indefinitely.

Furthermore, the apple also symbolizes the inherent dangers of seeking knowledge. Just as Adam and Eve faced dire consequences for eating the forbidden fruit, Jonas too faces the consequences of his curiosity later in the novel. As he gains access to the memories held by the Giver, he is exposed to the pain and suffering that exist in the world. The apple, therefore, serves as a reminder that knowledge comes with a price and that ignorance may sometimes be bliss.

The Loss of Innocence

In addition to representing knowledge and curiosity, the apple in The Giver also symbolizes the loss of innocence. In the society depicted, innocence is preserved through the suppression of emotions and the erasure of memories. However, as Jonas gains insight into the memories of the past, his innocence begins to fade.

When Jonas first receives memories from the Giver, they are transmitted through the act of placing his hands on an apple. This act symbolizes the transfer of knowledge and experiences that strip away his innocence. As Jonas gains more memories, he becomes aware of the pain, suffering, and complexity of the world. His once naive and innocent perspective is shattered, and he is forced to confront the harsh realities that exist beyond the confines of his community.

Furthermore, the apple also represents the loss of innocence in another significant way. In the society depicted, children are assigned their future occupations at the Ceremony of Twelve. However, Jonas is skipped over during this ceremony, and the apple is used as a symbol to mark his uniqueness and deviation from the norm. By not receiving an assignment like his peers, Jonas becomes aware of his individuality and the special role he plays in the community. This realization marks the beginning of his journey towards challenging the oppressive system and seeking a different path.

The Power of Personal Choice

The apple in The Giver also serves as a symbol of personal choice and individuality. In a society that values conformity and sameness, the apple represents the power to make choices and shape one's own destiny.

At one point in the novel, Jonas sees an apple change its color as he looks at it, an experience he has never encountered before. This event signifies the awakening of Jonas' ability to perceive color, a power that has been withheld from the citizens of his community. The changing apple serves as a symbol of the potential for change and individuality within a seemingly stagnant and controlled society.

Furthermore, the apple also represents the power of personal choice in the face of oppression. As Jonas realizes the limitations and injustices of his community, he makes the courageous decision to escape and seek a better life. The apple, with its association to knowledge, curiosity, and the loss of innocence, symbolizes Jonas' choice to embrace his individuality and fight for a freer and more fulfilling existence.

Conclusion

Through the symbolism of the apple in The Giver, Lois Lowry effectively conveys profound themes of forbidden knowledge, the loss of innocence, and the power of personal choice. The apple represents the temptation to seek knowledge, the consequences of gaining that knowledge, and the loss of innocence that comes with it. Moreover, it symbolizes the power of personal choice and the potential for change within a restrictive society. By examining these symbols, readers are encouraged to reflect on their own lives and question the importance of knowledge, the loss of innocence, and the power of personal choice in shaping their own destinies.

As we delve into the world of The Giver, we are reminded of the significance of symbols in literature and the power they hold to convey complex ideas. Through the use of the apple, Lowry challenges readers to question the status quo, embrace curiosity, and make choices that align with their own values and beliefs. The apple, with all its layers of meaning, serves as a reminder that even in the most controlled and oppressive societies, the human spirit cannot be extinguished.

Bibliography

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