Chapters 19 and 20: Summary

As Jonas’ father is scheduled to release a newborn twin one early morning, the question of “release” begins to occupy Jonas’ mind. The Giver informs Jonas that he can gain access to the twin’s release since all private ceremonies held in the community are recorded on video, and, being the Receiver, Jonas can ask for footage. Jonas thus watches his father weigh the twins and send the heavier one off to the Nurturing Center. His father applies a hypodermic shot to the lighter twin’s head, who makes a tiny twitch and soon falls still. Jonas then realizes that the child is dead. His father tosses the baby down a garbage chute and waves goodbye.

When the video ends, the Giver tells Jonas that Rosemary had committed suicide, that she’d asked to be injected at her release. Jonas finds himself overwhelmed with betrayal and deceit. He is also shocked to learn that Fiona must kill the Old people of the community when they are released. Being unable to deal with this reality, Jonas decides to spend the night with the Giver.

In a bid to save the community from its own inhumanity, Jonas and the Giver develop a plan for the latter’s escape into Elsewhere. By fleeing, Jonas believes he will be able to force the community to share the immense, painful burden of the memories he has received from the Giver.

Jonas plans to leave the community just before the upcoming December Ceremony. In preparation, the Giver transmits memories of strength and courage to Jonas. The night before the ceremony, Jonas leaves the house with extra clothes, and later hides by the river with only his father’s bicycle for company. In the morning, the Giver requests a vehicle and a driver on the pretext of visiting another community. Jonas hides in the storage compartment, and the Giver lies to the community by telling them that Jonas drowned in the river.

Chapters 19 and 20: Analysis

In these chapters, Jonas expresses his disappointment with his father and the community at large. The footage helps him understand that “release” is just a euphemism for death. He despises his father and is unable to understand that, like the rest of residents, he, too, is a victim of rigid societal standards and rules.

Jonas seeks comfort in the Giver and, with his help, devises a plan to flee the community. The Giver understands his plight, empathizes with him, and agrees to help him escape. Unfortunately, however, the Giver will not be able to accompany Jonas. Amidst a pervading sense of loss and despair, Jonas’ decision to flee the society brings some hope. Once he leaves, his memories will be distributed among the residents. Dealing with the memories will enable the community to mature and move beyond the shackles of “sameness.”