The Giver – Epilogue
The era that Jonas was in was around 2000, Post-Apocalypse. After World War IV, a debate went on: Should there be free choice, where harm can be done? Or should we sacrifice our freedom of choice for a utopian world? The dispute lasted for more than 2 years, both sides having believed firmly in their arguments, while some tried to find a better solution. Eventually, utopian won.
Plans were made for the utopian community. First, scientists were employed. They were to produce a biochemical that will kill every organism in a certain radius. They were then to shield a large area, where others built an ideal community. A small population was sent to the community, their minds wiped of memories and emotions. A Receiver of Memories was appointed by the Elders of the community, whom gained as many memories as they could. The Receiver advised the community through wisdom of the past, while science and techniques were improved to make life perfect and free of pain. The rest of the world was killed.
After years, the community flourished. All except the Receiver were ignorant of their past, with no pain and no choice. When there was a mishap, when something went wrong, like over population, memories were obliterated, and the community started a new.
When Jonas took flight, he hadn't traveled far enough to reach the border of existence. If he had, he would have seen the carnage of destruction that was the old world. Jonas would have seen heaps of metal that was once mighty skyscrapers now lay in debris, what used to be homes and vehicles now lay discard. In total, the world was a total wasteland.
Instead, Jonas and Gabriel were fortunate enough to only see the beauty of Mother Nature. He only saw the thick foliage covering the forest, with beautiful sighs and smells, and wonders that delighted the had saw animals and had experienced a small measure of freedom. Jonas had save Gabe, and had at least given him a chance at life, real life, however short.
But now they lay, motionlessly on the ground. Soft snow gently drifted down, crystals framed their hair and lashes. Jonas clutched Gabe protectively in his embrace, dreaming of a place he will never be able to see. And as they continue their hallucination, Death laid his hand on them. …Ashes to ashes, dust to dust…