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  • Essay / The search for identity in "Never Let Me Go" by Kazuo Ishiguro

    In the novel "Never Let Me Go" by Kazuo Ishiguro, the search for identity is not just a superficial exploration; it’s a profound journey that resonates deeply with the reader. Set in a dystopian world where clones are bred for organ donation, the story follows the lives of Kathy, Tommy and Ruth as they navigate the complexities of their existence. Ishiguro masterfully uses various literary techniques to delve into the multifaceted nature of identity formation, providing readers with a gripping narrative that challenges societal norms and incites introspection. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay One of the most poignant aspects of exploring Ishiguro's identity is the symbolism embedded throughout the novel. The Judy Bridgewater tape, for example, is a powerful symbol of nostalgia and the desire for connection. For Kathy, the tape represents a tangible link to her past at Hailsham, a boarding school where she spent her formative years. The song “Never Let Me Go” holds special meaning for Kathy, evoking a feeling of nostalgia and longing for love and acceptance. Through this symbol, Ishiguro effectively captures the tension between the clones' predetermined destiny as organ donors and their innate desire to be seen as unique individuals with complex emotions and aspirations. Similarly, the Hailsham Art Gallery appears as a symbolic space for self-expression. and the challenge. Through their works, the clones strive to assert their humanity and forge individual identities in a society that often reduces them to mere commodities. The art gallery serves as a sanctuary where they can explore their innermost thoughts and feelings, free from the constraints of their predetermined roles. By depicting the art gallery as a place of rebellion and self-discovery, Ishiguro highlights the clones' resilience in the face of adversity and their unwavering commitment to finding meaning in their lives. Imagery also plays an important role in the exploration of Ishiguro's identity in "Never Let Me Go". The detailed descriptions of the animals in Tommy's drawings, for example, serve as a poignant metaphor for the clones' desire to connect with the natural world and assert their autonomy. Tommy's meticulous attention to detail reflects his desire for authenticity and individuality, despite the constraints imposed by his clone status. Through vivid imagery, Ishiguro captures the deep sense of longing and disillusionment that permeates the characters' lives as they grapple with their existential dilemma. Water, another recurring motif in the novel, symbolizes the ebb and flow of life and the fleeting nature of existence. . In quiet moments, such as when Kathy reflects on her childhood memories of Hailsham, water represents a source of comfort and reassurance. However, in times of turmoil, such as when the characters are faced with the harsh realities of their fate as organ donors, water becomes a symbol of uncertainty and instability. Through his evocative use of imagery, Ishiguro emphasizes the fragile and fleeting nature of identity, reminding readers of the impermanence of life and the inevitability of change. Characterization also plays a crucial role in exploring Ishiguro's identity in "Never Let Me Go". Through the characters of Kathy and Tommy, Ishiguro offers readers insight into the internal struggles and conflicts faced by the clones as they grapple with their identities. Nature.