When I wrote 'The Giver,' it contained no so-called 'bad words.' It was set, after all, in a mythical, futuristic, and Utopian society. Not only was there no poverty, divorce, racism, sexism, pollution, or violence in the world of 'The Giver'; there was also careful attention paid to language: to its fluency, precision, and power.

If you were to be lost in the river, Jonas, your memories would not be lost with you. Memories are forever.

It was almost December, and Jonas was beginning to be frightened.

And it was lonely, to yearn, all alone.

Mama was crying, and the rain made it seem as if the whole world was crying.

Take pride in your pain; you are stronger than those who have none

I don't set out to transmit a message. I don't write with a political point of view. There are no religious overtones. Looking back at my books, I can say, 'Oh, yes, it is there.' But it's not in my mind when I write.