IndexPhysical EnvironmentCultural EnvironmentGeographical EnvironmentConclusionReferencesIn Kazuo Ishiguro's haunting novel, "Never Let Me Go", the lives of Kathy, Ruth and Tommy take place in a mysterious world marked by secrecy and a peculiar sense of normality. Ishiguro masterfully uses the physical, cultural, and geographic environments as powerful tools to shape characters' identities, thoughts, actions, and relationships. This essay will delve into these aspects, using specific quotes from the text and drawing on relevant academic perspectives to provide a comprehensive analysis. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Physical Environment The physical environment in the novel is embodied by Hailsham, the secluded boarding school where the characters spend their formative years. Hailsham is more than just a place; it's a microcosm that encapsulates the characters' entire world. Ishiguro uses vivid descriptions to portray the isolation of Hailsham. Kathy recalls, “We rarely went beyond the confines of the cottages.” Hailsham's isolation is instrumental in shaping the characters' understanding of normality. They grow up believing that their life is unique and that they are special. As Kathy reflects: "We had our guardians and our rules and our teachers... We didn't have to constantly be looking over our shoulders." Kathy's attachment to a box is a touching example of the value placed on small possessions within the boundaries of Hailsham. This emphasis on the significance of seemingly insignificant objects emphasizes the characters' isolation from the outside world, where material abundance is the norm. Furthermore, the physical environment of Hailsham contributes to the characters' firm belief in their own uniqueness. They are surrounded by peers who share their plight, further reinforcing their distorted sense of normality. Kathy's retrospective narrative allows readers to witness her evolving awareness of this distortion. As the characters age, they grapple with the realization that they are actually quite ordinary. Cultural Environment The cultural environment in the novel creates a profound impact on the characters' behaviors and worldviews. In this world there is a distinct culture surrounding the existence of these "special" children. They are raised to believe in their exceptionality, with guardians and teachers who reinforce this narrative. As anthropologists argue, culture provides a framework for behavioral and affective norms. In the case of Kathy, Ruth, and Tommy, their cultural environment pushes them to accept their roles as organ donors and healthcare providers without question. Kathy reflects, "We all know it. We're modeled after garbage. Drug addicts, prostitutes, alcoholics, vagrants. Convicts, maybe, as long as they're not psychopaths." The characters' upbringing in Hailsham, steeped in cultural conditioning, profoundly influences their adult lives. They have been conditioned to see their fate as predetermined, a consequence of their unique status. The novel shows how culture influences not only their actions but also their relationships, as they navigate the complex dynamics of love and jealousy. Kathy's transformation into a caregiver is a touching example of how the cultural environment influences the characters. He continues to care for donors, despite the sad fate that awaits them. This continuity of behavior from childhood to adulthood highlights the lasting impact of cultural conditioning. Geographic Setting The geographical setting in “Never Let Me Go” plays a significant role in shaping the characters' identities and perspectives. The novel is, 54(3), 501-523.