Never Let Me Go
Chapter 12: Twelve
by Ishiguro, KazuoThe chapter begins with Kathy reflecting on the Norfolk trip, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the concept of “possibles.” She recalls a conversation with Ruth, who mentions that their friends Chrissie and Rodney claim to have spotted Ruth’s “possible” in a town called Cromer. This sparks Kathy’s skepticism, as she questions the motives behind Chrissie and Rodney’s story. The idea of “possibles”—individuals who might be the original models from whom they were cloned—is introduced, revealing its taboo yet fascinating nature among the students at Hailsham and later at the Cottages.
The chapter delves into the students’ theories about “possibles,” highlighting the lack of consensus on how to identify them. Some believe models would be older, resembling parental figures, while others argue age is irrelevant. The debate often fizzles out as it veers into uncomfortable territory. The underlying belief is that finding one’s model could offer insight into their identity and future, though this is more symbolic than literal. Despite some dismissing the idea as irrelevant, the fascination with “possibles” persists, and reported sightings often come in waves, stirring curiosity and speculation.
Kathy recounts Ruth’s detailed account of Rodney’s alleged sighting of her possible in an office with a glass front. Ruth is torn about whether to investigate further, while Kathy remains doubtful, suspecting Chrissie and Rodney of fabricating the story. Kathy’s skepticism stems from her observations of Chrissie’s manipulative behavior, such as her tendency to separate the group and her excessive interest in their Hailsham past. Rodney, though likable, is portrayed as overly influenced by Chrissie, further casting doubt on their credibility.
The chapter concludes with Kathy questioning the validity of the sighting, emphasizing her distrust of Chrissie and Rodney’s intentions. She reflects on their personalities, noting Chrissie’s odd demeanor and Rodney’s subservience, which reinforce her belief that the story might be a ploy. This skepticism sets the tone for the upcoming Norfolk trip, hinting at underlying tensions and the emotional complexity surrounding the search for “possibles.” The chapter masterfully blends personal dynamics with the broader existential themes of identity and destiny.
FAQs
1. What is the concept of “possibles” as introduced in Chapter Twelve, and why is it significant to the characters?
Answer:
The concept of “possibles” refers to the theory that each clone at Hailsham and the Cottages was modeled after a normal human being, and therefore, there exists somewhere a person who served as their genetic original. The characters believe that by finding their “possible,” they might gain insight into their true identity or future. This idea is significant because it represents their longing for connection to the human world and understanding of their purpose, despite being clones created for organ donation. The topic is treated with both fascination and discomfort, as it touches on their existential questions about identity and fate.2. How does Ruth’s reaction to the news about her “possible” reveal her internal conflict?
Answer:
Ruth’s reaction is ambivalent—she claims to dismiss the idea of “possibles” as irrelevant, yet she is clearly intrigued when Chrissie and Rodney report seeing someone who might be hers. She lowers her voice when discussing it, indicating secrecy and unease, and admits she doesn’t know whether to pursue the sighting. This contradiction reveals her internal struggle between wanting to believe in a deeper connection to humanity and maintaining emotional distance to protect herself from potential disappointment or existential dread.3. Analyze the dynamics between Chrissie, Rodney, and the newcomers (Ruth, Kathy, and others). What underlying tensions exist?
Answer:
Chrissie and Rodney, as veterans at the Cottages, exhibit a patronizing and manipulative attitude toward the newcomers, particularly Ruth. Chrissie frequently separates the group members, asks probing questions about Hailsham, and subtly reinforces their outsider status. Rodney, while more likable, blindly supports Chrissie’s behavior. Their reported sighting of Ruth’s “possible” may be another way to exert control or provoke curiosity. Kathy suspects their motives, highlighting the power imbalance and the veterans’ tendency to exoticize the Hailsham students rather than treat them as equals.4. Why does Kathy doubt the legitimacy of Chrissie and Rodney’s claim about seeing Ruth’s “possible”?
Answer:
Kathy is skeptical because she perceives Chrissie and Rodney as unreliable narrators—Chrissie often manipulates situations, and Rodney follows her lead without question. Additionally, their history of treating the Hailsham students as curiosities makes Kathy question whether the sighting is genuine or just another way to toy with Ruth’s emotions. The vagueness of Rodney’s description (e.g., an open-plan office with many people) further fuels Kathy’s suspicion that the story is fabricated.5. How does the theme of identity exploration manifest in this chapter, particularly through the discussion of “possibles”?
Answer:
The “possibles” theory serves as a metaphor for the clones’ search for identity and meaning beyond their predetermined roles as donors. By imagining they might resemble or inherit traits from their human models, they grapple with questions of individuality and destiny. The debates about whether to seek their “possibles” reflect deeper anxieties: Are they merely copies, or do they have unique selves? The chapter underscores their yearning for validation and a sense of belonging in a world that treats them as expendable.
Quotes
1. “The basic idea behind the possibles theory was simple, and didn’t provoke much dispute. It went something like this. Since each of us was copied at some point from a normal person, there must be, for each of us, somewhere out there, a model getting on with his or her life.”
This quote introduces the central concept of “possibles” in the novel’s universe—the idea that clones are modeled after original humans. It establishes a key philosophical and existential question that haunts the characters: the search for identity and origins in a manufactured existence.
2. “One big idea behind finding your model was that when you did, you’d glimpse your future… Nevertheless, we all of us, to varying degrees, believed that when you saw the person you were copied from, you’d get some insight into who you were deep down, and maybe too, you’d see something of what your life held in store.”
This passage reveals the clones’ desperate hope that finding their “possible” might provide meaning or destiny to their predetermined lives. It highlights their human longing for self-understanding despite their artificial origins.
3. “There were some who thought it stupid to be concerned about possibles at all. Our models were an irrelevance, a technical necessity for bringing us into the world, nothing more than that. It was up to each of us to make of our lives what we could.”
This contrasting viewpoint shows the ideological divide among clones about their nature and purpose. The pragmatic perspective emphasizes self-determination, creating tension with the more mystical belief in “possibles” as keys to identity.
4. “Chrissie was a tall girl who was quite beautiful when she stood up to her full height, but she didn’t seem to realise this and spent her time crouching to be the same as the rest of us.”
This observation about Chrissie’s physical posture serves as a powerful metaphor for the clones’ collective psychology—their instinctive self-diminishment and conformity despite individual potential, reflecting their conditioned existence in society.