the newchild who Jonas takes to Elsewhere when he leaves the community, is a symbol of the future, as babies often are. Jonas takes this symbol of the future with him when he heads toward the future, leaving the community's past behind.

The Sled

The sled symbolizes the memories that carry Jonas from the community where he grew up to Elsewhere.

The River

The river is a symbol of the uncontrollable. It flows away from the community and is out of the control of the community.

Motifs

Vision

The depth of vision that Jonas possesses is an ability to understand what he sees.

Eye Color

The light eye color of Jonas and the Giver connects the two characters in what feels like a genetic link. The similarity of their eye color makes them seem to be connected.

Nakedness

To Jonas nakedness stands for freedom. And it stands for peoples' ability to really know each other.