Kazuo Ishiguro’s “Never Let Me Go” is a dystopian novel that probes profoundly into questions of self, humanity and the effects of technology development. The three main characters are best friends, Kathy, Ruth, and Tommy, who spend their formative years at the mysterious Hailsham Boarding School. As they explore the globe in quest of their identities, they face the horrifying reality that they are clones designed to serve as organ donors for “real” people. This close reading paper analyzes how the protagonists’ search for meaning, love, and self-acceptance in “Never Let Me Go” reveals a moving commentary on humanity’s pursuit during dehumanizing circumstances, prompting readers to consider the ethical implications of scientific discoveries and the treatment of individuals.
The student’s acts at Hailsham demonstrate the primary concept of seeking one’s identity and a sense of purpose. Students at Hailsham are encouraged to consider themselves living organ donors and are taught to prioritize collaboration above individuality. However, Kathy, Ruth, and Tommy show subtle disobedience (Kazuo Ishiguro, 2010). For example, Kathy’s obsession with finding the lost tape symbolizes her need for self-expression in a culture that discourages it. This idea is supported by M. Seppänen’s analysis of dystopian fiction in young adult literature, which emphasizes the theme of identity and social growth (Seppänen, 2017). The fact that the children at Hailsham care enough to create and keep art shows how much they want to share their feelings and build bridges to their past and future selves, further exemplifying their search for personal meaning and purpose.
Ishiguro explores the impact of love and relationships in a society where people are treated as disposable. Despite his relationship with Ruth, Kathy’s undying love for Tommy exemplifies the ability of feelings to carry people above their difficult circumstances (Kazuo Ishiguro, 2010). Seppänen’s analysis of relationships in dystopian literature sheds light on how such connections reflect the broader conventions of the genre (Seppänen, 2017). Humans may feel complex emotions despite their limited surroundings, as seen by Ruth’s jealousy and manipulation, which stem from her fear of losing Tommy. When the characters form a close-knit community at the Cottages, it demonstrates the crucial function of social relationships even under the most trying situations.
In “Never Let Me Go,” the heroes are continuously reminded of their death. The story explores how its protagonists and antagonists cope, knowing they are about to die. Fear of the unknown and the desire to leave a legacy motivate Ruth to search for a “possible” (Kazuo Ishiguro, 2010). Tommy struggles with the harsh reality of his responsibility as a donor, as seen by his outbursts of rage and anger. Caring for her friends and fellow donors as they gradually lose their health has made Kathy more acutely aware of her mortality and the ephemeral nature of joy and companionship.
“Never Let Me Go” celebrates the strength of human will and the significance of freedom of choice by depicting the protagonist’s internal fight for self-acceptance and her revolt against a cruel society. After discovering their true function, Kathy, Ruth, and Tommy are faced with a choice: accept their fate passively or take direct action against the system that dehumanizes them. Tommy’s disdain for his predetermined destiny is evident in his passionate plea for a delay to Madame and Miss Emily. The characters’ struggles with accepting themselves show how strong the human will is and how essential personal agency is to everyone. Seppänen’s analysis of identity in dystopian literature aligns with this theme, highlighting how the characters’ struggles reflect the broader societal critique in such narratives (Seppänen, 2017).
In conclusion, Kazuo Ishiguro’s “Never Let Me Go” delves into deeper questions about what it means to be human beyond the protagonists’ everyday lives as cloned organ donors. Kathy, Ruth, and Tommy personify the essence of humanity in their pursuit of self-discovery, the depth of their relationships, their acceptance of their mortality, and their acts of defiance. Ishiguro’s storytelling compels readers to consider the moral dimensions of issues like science, human nature, and the meaning of life.
By integrating secondary sources throughout the paper, examining the characters’ struggles gains more depth and perspective. Learning more about this eerie dystopian society, we understand that finding one’s humanity is much more than just standing up for oneself or trying to find a reason for being here. Instead, it’s found in a person’s ability to love, empathize, and persevere despite an unfair system. “Never Let Me Go” serves as a poignant reminder that our lives and humanity are priceless, regardless of our exterior circumstances, and that the only thing that truly matters is the bonds we make with those we care about.
References
Kazuo Ishiguro. (2010). Never Let Me Go. Goodreads.com. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6334.Never_Let_Me_Go
Seppänen, M. (2017). Dystopia in Young Adult Fiction. Identity, relationships, and social growth in Suzanne Collins’s The Hunger Games and Veronica Roth’s Divergent trilogies. https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/250147588.pdf
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