Lily’s Lifeline- Unveiling the Comfort Object That Defined Her World in ‘The Giver’
What was Lily’s Comfort Object in The Giver?
In Lois Lowry’s thought-provoking novel “The Giver,” the concept of comfort objects plays a significant role in the lives of the characters. Among them, Lily’s comfort object stands out as a powerful symbol of her individuality and the struggle for personal freedom in a seemingly perfect society. This article delves into the nature of Lily’s comfort object and its significance in the story.
Lily’s comfort object was a small, delicate stone that she carried with her at all times. This stone held immense sentimental value to her, serving as a reminder of her individuality and the unique experiences she had before joining the society. Unlike the other citizens of her community, who were conditioned to conform to societal norms, Lily clung to this stone as a representation of her own personal journey and the freedom she longed for.
The stone’s significance is further highlighted by its connection to Lily’s past. In the novel, Lily’s mother was an artist who was ostracized from the community for her creative pursuits. This made Lily’s connection to her mother and her artistic heritage all the more precious. The stone became a tangible link to her mother’s world, a world where emotions and individuality were not suppressed but celebrated.
As Lily navigates the challenges of living in a society that values sameness and conformity, her comfort object serves as a constant reminder of her own identity. It allows her to hold onto her individuality in a world that seeks to extinguish it. The stone also becomes a symbol of her resilience and determination to break free from the constraints imposed by the society.
Furthermore, Lily’s comfort object plays a crucial role in her relationship with the Giver, a character who possesses the memories of the entire community. The Giver shares his memories with Lily, helping her to understand the world outside the confines of her society. The stone becomes a bridge between their shared experiences, allowing Lily to embrace her own emotions and memories.
In conclusion, Lily’s comfort object in “The Giver” is a powerful symbol of her individuality and the struggle for personal freedom. It represents her connection to her past, her resilience, and her desire to break free from the constraints of a society that values conformity. The stone’s significance lies in its ability to remind Lily of her own identity and the unique experiences that define her. Through this symbol, Lowry highlights the importance of individuality and the courage it takes to embrace one’s true self in a world that seeks to suppress it.
