"Ishiguro, in Never Let Me Go, both comforts and disturbs us because so much of human nature is reflected in the lives of the clones." To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? Support your answer with reference to the novel. - Leaving Cert English - Question C (i) - 2015

Kazuo Ishiguro's novel Never Let Me Go presents a multidimensional exploration of human nature, eliciting both comfort and disturbance through the lives of clones.

On one hand, the portrayal of clones like Kathy, Ruth, and Tommy highlights fundamental human emotions—friendship, love, and the longing for purpose. Their interactions echo the complexities of human relationships, offering readers a sense of comfort as these characters seek connection and value in their existence. For instance, the friendships formed among the characters reflect innate human desires for companionship and understanding.

Conversely, Ishiguro juxtaposes this comfort with an unsettling narrative regarding the fate of the clones. The constant reminder of their mortality raises profound questions about exploitation and the ethical implications of cloning. This aspect of the novel disturbs readers, as it unveils a harsh reality intertwined with themes of hopelessness and loss. The sustained erosion of the characters' dreams and hopes starkly contrasts the comfort previously derived from their human-like qualities, invoking feelings of pity and despair in the audience. Ultimately, these contrasting elements foreground the complexity of human nature reflected in the lives of the clones, which can comfort and disturb simultaneously.