In “The Ones Who Walk Away From Omelas”, by Ursula K LeGuin, the author explores the ethical tension between the idyllic city and the child suffering to question the moral foundations of society. The author uses Omelas city to define idealism, however, behind the lively city there is a dark truth.

Omelas is portrayed as a utopian city, a place of beauty, tranquility, and congruity. The city itself serves as a symbol of idealism. Everything around the city seems to be perfect, and everyone lives without fear. LeGuin first introduces the Omelas city with describing the Festival of Summer. The author emphasizes the happiness that runs deep in the streets of Omelas, the people went dancing, loud music was playing, and there were no worries around. However, the dark truth behind this lively city reveals: the stress-free city hinges on the suffering of an innocent child.

Through the perspective of Omelas citizens, it is clear how everyone knows the existence of the abuse that undergoes behind closed doors. This stark contrast between the utopian city and the child’s suffering raises the profound ethical questions. While the citizens are aware of the abuse that occurs, they ignore their suffering because they believe even if a child were to be set free, they would not comprehend the concept of freedom and joy because they’ve lived all their lives only knowing about suffer. LeGuin emphasizes the consequences of a society built on the lack of moral compass. The author reveals the uncomfortable reality that divides humanity in class, economy, and politics; the division provides evidence on how the society is build on injustice.

Once the citizens of Omelas learn the child’s existence, they are faced with a moral choice: accept the unjust, and enjoy their happy lives that depends on the child’s suffering, or walk away, rejecting the society built for them. There are citizens who chose to not accept this unjust; leaving their happy lives in Omelas behind because they believe gaining happiness is not worth the suffering of a child. In the text, the narrator states, “The joy built upon successful slaughter is not the right kind of
joy; it will not do; it is fearful and it is trivial”.

LeGuin uses the stark contrast between the idyllic city of Omelas and the suffering shield to explore the ethics of societal happiness and the nature of morality. The author provides the two different perspectives, one perspective who lives lavishly meanwhile the other faces brutal challenges. LeGuin proves to readers that there is always a choice to be made. Whether it is benefiting you or not, there is a choice that can deeply impact another life.

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