Book Sharing---Never Let Me Go

"Never Let Me Go" is a novel written by British author Kazuo Ishiguro and was published in 2005. It is a unique blend of science fiction, literary fiction, and tragedy. The novel presents a utopian world where human technology has advanced to the point where clones are created for the sole purpose of being organ donors. The story follows three clones, Kathy, Ruth, and Tommy, who spend their childhood and youth in a secluded school, constantly donating organs until their lives come to an end. The novel depicts the life and inner turmoil of the clone world through their perspective, exploring the meaning of human life, ethical dilemmas of scientific advancement, and conflicts between social justice and human emotions. "Never Let Me Go" is a thought-provoking and emotionally powerful novel, a classic work that delves into the essence of human existence and dignity. Join me in discovering what makes this book worth recommending!

1）Ethics of Science and Medicine

The novel raises questions about the moral responsibility of scientists and medical professionals when it comes to the treatment of human beings, particularly those who have been created for the sole purpose of donating organs. The story presents a dystopian world in which clones are created and raised in isolated facilities, with no knowledge of the world outside or their eventual fate as organ donors. In this case, one of the key ethical issues explored in the novel is the question of whether it is morally justifiable to use one human being as a source of organs for the benefit of others. The clones are treated as little more than commodities, with their lives and wellbeing sacrificed for the sake of those in need of organ transplants. This raises important questions about the value of human life, the ethics of organ donation, and the role of science and medicine in society.

2） The Relentless Passage of Time and the Inevitability of Loss

Although she is only thirty-one at the start of the novel, Kathy has almost reached the end of her life. She has lost almost everyone she knew from Hailsham, holding onto them only in her memories. While Kathy’s retrospective narration shows the inevitability of loss, many of her memories reflect a desire slow the relentless march of time towards these losses. The deferral rumor clearly reflects this desire: in hoping for deferrals from donating organs, the students embody the deeply human wish for more time in the face of death. But even the idea of a deferral reinforces the inevitability of death and loss: a deferral is only a brief extension on life, a temporary hold that puts off the future instead of changing it. This same desire for more time ironically motivates the donation program, which depends on the students’ internal organs to extend the lives of people in the outside world[1]. Through his portrayal of the clones' lives, Ishiguro shows us the beauty and fragility of human existence, and reminds us that our time on this earth is fleeting and precious.

3） The Dignity of Human Life

Throughout the novel, Ishiguro presents the clones as fully realized human beings who are worthy of dignity and respect. He challenges the idea that a person's value is determined by their usefulness to society, and instead celebrates the complexity and richness of human life. Despite the bleak premise of the novel, Ishiguro portrays the dignity of human life through the relationships between the characters. Kathy, Ruth, and Tommy form a deep bond that transcends their purpose as organ donors. They share experiences and emotions that allows readers to experience uniquely human, such as love, jealousy, and longing.

4）Thought-provoking

In the book,Ishiguro exposes the irony,poignancy and beauty of human life;it is,in a sense,a reflection of our own lives.[2] The complex and well-drawn characters: The main characters in the novel are nuanced, relatable, and three-dimensional. Their experiences and relationships with each other are portrayed in a deeply moving way that can resonate with readers.

[1] “Never Let Me Go” https://www.sparknotes.com [2] “Why You Should Read Never Let Me Go” https://eyeoflynx.wordpress.com