While reading The Giver by Lois Lowry, I think there is a large amount of symbolism in it and it can be taken many different ways, especially the ending. In my interpretation, I believe that Jonas and Gabe perish in the elements. However, I don't think that it is necesarily a sad ending, it is bittersweet. By sacrificing their lives, perhaps the community learns to love, feel pain and happiness, and accept differences. In addition, Jonas remembers all of the happy memories of his friends and family before sliding down the (imaginary?) snowy hill in the sled. At this part, I think he realizes his individuality and that he's not just the same as everyone else in the community. He realizes that he is a human being, able to experiences pain,
