Chapters 7 and 9: Summary

Jonas and the other Elevens are seated in numerical order in preparation for their ceremony. At birth, each child is given a number signifying the order in which they were born. The ceremony begins with the Chief Elder’s speech which acknowledges the differences that have been observed in each Eleven. This is particularly ironic since the community otherwise prefers homogeneity to individuality.

Jonas’ friend Asher receives the position of Assistant Director of Recreation. The Chief Elder notes that Asher received this assignment because he likes to have fun and is not particularly good at learning languages. She notes that Asher had once mixed up the words “smack” and “snack” at the Childcare Center. Jonas thinks this is a suitable assignment and is happy for his friend.

As the December Ceremony progresses and the Elevens receive their Assignments, the Chief Elder skips over Jonas’ name. This makes Jonas think that he has unknowingly done something wrong and is being punished for it. After all the other Elevens have been given their assignments, the Chief Elder apologizes for causing everyone, and especially Jonas, such discomfort by skipping over his name. The Chief Elder then announces that Jonas has been “selected” to become the new Receiver of Memory, the most honored position in the community.

The Chief Elder goes on to explain the qualities requisite for a Receiver of Memory: intelligence, integrity, wisdom, and the “Capacity to See Beyond.” Jonas is unsure whether he has this last quality, but as he looks out at the audience, he sees the audience change, the same way that the apple changed.

Others begin to treat Jonas differently after this Assignment. Though they respect him, they are not as friendly. When Jonas asks his parents about the failed Receiver, the person whose spot Jonas has just been offered, his parents tell him that her name is Not-to-Be-Spoken, which is the highest level of disgrace in the community.

As part of the role, Jonas is forbidden from discussing his training with anyone, although he is allowed to ask questions. Interestingly enough, asking questions is considered rude in most other contexts. He cannot take or ask for any medication that might disrupt his training, and he will have very little time for recreation.

Chapters 7 and 9: Analysis

These chapters introduce us to the role of the Receiver of Memories, a rather prestigious position. Although differences are not generally encouraged, this new Assignment sets Jonas apart from other residents.

The chapters also highlight how is ingrained in the individuals and the extent to which they fear punishment. When the Chief Elder Skips Jonas’ name, Jonas assumes he has done something wrong; it does not occur to him that the Chief Elder might have made a mistake.

Jonas is confused about his future as the new Receiver of Memory. He is particularly afraid of the physical pain he is told he will endure; he’s also concerned that he might be alienated from his friends and family, but he feels proud nonetheless because the residents are in awe of him.