Argumentative Essay on “Never Let Me Go” by Kazuo Ishiguro

An argument about the text (not a synopsis or opinion)
Literary analysis/close reading of one or two passages that supports your argument
Citation from a secondary source

Full Answer Section

Ishiguro further strengthens this argument through his detailed descriptions of the clones' internal lives. Their memories, dreams, and desires mirror those of humans, blurring the lines between the two groups. Kathy's introspective narration reveals a complex inner world filled with self-awareness and a desire for understanding. This internal life further emphasizes the clones' sentience and their capacity for human experience.

Critics like John Banville have noted the novel's "disturbingly beautiful" portrayal of the clones' lives. He argues that Ishiguro's prose "is so clear and precise that it almost becomes a scalpel, dissecting the characters' lives and exposing their vulnerabilities" (Banville, 2005). This meticulous attention to detail allows the reader to connect with the clones on a deeper level, challenging their preconceived notions about who deserves to be considered human.

"Never Let Me Go" is not simply a dystopian narrative; it is a profound reflection on the human condition. By exploring the clones' experiences, Ishiguro forces us to confront uncomfortable questions about what it means to be human, the value of life, and the ethical implications of scientific advancement. The novel's enduring power lies in its ability to engage both our intellect and our emotions, leaving us with a lasting sense of unease and a renewed appreciation for our own existence.

Works Cited:

Sample Answer

Never Let Me Go: A Haunting Exploration of Human Existence

Kazuo Ishiguro's "Never Let Me Go" is a haunting and profound exploration of human existence, identity, and the ethical implications of scientific advancements. Through the eyes of Kathy H., a young clone destined for organ donation, Ishiguro masterfully portrays the clones' struggle to understand their place in the world while grappling with their preordained mortality.

One of the central arguments of the novel is that the clones, despite their artificial creation, possess inherent human qualities. Their capacity for love, longing, and self-reflection is evident throughout the narrative. Kathy's deep attachment to her friends, Tommy and Ruth, and her yearning for a life beyond her predetermined fate demonstrate a profound understanding of human emotions. This inherent humanity challenges the ethical justification for their creation and treatment, raising questions about the value of life and the boundaries between natural and artificial creation.