The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas Summary
The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas is a short story written by Ursula K. Le Guin in 1973. The story is set in the fictional city of Omelas, which is described as a utopian society. The citizens of Omelas are happy and content, living in a perfect world. However, the story reveals that the city's happiness is built upon a dark secret: the suffering of a single child. The story follows the journey of a few citizens who choose to leave Omelas, unable to accept the city's dark secret.
The Setting of Omelas
Omelas is a utopian city, where the citizens live in perfect harmony and contentment. The city is described as a beautiful place, with lush gardens, vibrant markets, and a peaceful atmosphere. The citizens of Omelas are happy and content, living in a perfect world. The city is ruled by a wise and benevolent leader, and the citizens have access to all the resources they need to live a comfortable life.
The Dark Secret of Omelas
The story reveals that the city's happiness is built upon a dark secret: the suffering of a single child. In the basement of a building in the city, there is a child who is kept in a dark and dismal room. The child is neglected and mistreated, and its suffering is what allows the citizens of Omelas to live in such a perfect world. The citizens of Omelas are aware of the child's suffering, but they choose to ignore it, as they believe that the suffering of one is a necessary price to pay for the happiness of many.
The Ones Who Walk Away
The story follows the journey of a few citizens who choose to leave Omelas, unable to accept the city's dark secret. These citizens are known as “the ones who walk away from Omelas”. They leave the city, never to return, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. The story does not reveal where they go, or what they find, but it is implied that they find a place of peace and acceptance.
Themes of The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas
The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas is a story about the power of choice and the consequences of our decisions. The story explores the idea that the pursuit of happiness can come at a great cost, and that sometimes we must make difficult choices in order to do what is right. The story also suggests that we should not ignore the suffering of others, and that we should strive to make the world a better place.
Conclusion
The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas is a powerful story that explores the idea of utopia and the consequences of our choices. The story reveals that the pursuit of happiness can come at a great cost, and that sometimes we must make difficult choices in order to do what is right. The story also suggests that we should not ignore the suffering of others, and that we should strive to make the world a better place.
