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Definition of Motif
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the central themes of a book... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of... read full definition
Key Examples in The Giver
Chapter 13
Explanation and Analysis—Emotional Flashbacks:
Jonas learns about history through flashbacks the Giver transmits to him, clipped from other people's memories of the time before Sameness. A selection of the flashbacks appear in the novel as a motif to emphasize Jonas's emotional growth and learning. For example, in Chapter 13, the Giver transmits a disturbing flashback to the slaying of an elephant:
The Giver had chosen a startling and disturbing memory that day. Under the touch of his hands, Jonas had found himself suddenly in a place that was completely alien: hot and windswept under a vast blue sky. There were tufts of sparse grass, a few bushes and rocks, and nearby he could see an area of thicker vegetation: broad, low trees outlined against the sky. He could hear noises: the sharp crack of weapons—he perceived the word guns—and then shouts, and an immense crashing thud as something fell, tearing branches from the trees.
Related Themes:
Chapter 20
Explanation and Analysis—Back and Back and Back:
The phrase "back and back and back" is a motif in the novel. For example, in Chapter 20, Jonas utters the phrase as he laments to the Giver that nothing can be done to stop the Community from killing people deemed useless to society:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Jonas looked up, puzzled. “A plan for what? There’s nothing. There’s nothing we can do. It’s always been this way. Before me, before you, before the ones who came before you. Back and back and back.” His voice trailed the familiar phrase.
Related Themes:
