The Ones Who Walk Away From Omelas facts for kids

"The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas" is a famous short story by American writer Ursula K. Le Guin. It was first published in 1973. The story takes place in a wonderful, perfect city called Omelas. This city is a utopian place, meaning everything seems ideal and happy.

However, there's a dark secret to Omelas's happiness. The city can only stay wealthy and joyful if one child lives in terrible suffering. This child is kept hidden and miserable. The story explores the difficult choice people in Omelas face: accept this suffering for the greater good, or leave the perfect city behind.

"The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas" was recognized for its powerful message. It was nominated for the Locus Award for Best Short Fiction in 1974. It also won the prestigious Hugo Award for Best Short Story in 1974.

Understanding Omelas: A Perfect City?

Omelas is described as a city of joy and celebration. Its people are intelligent, artistic, and live in peace. There are no kings, soldiers, or complex laws. Everyone seems to live a simple, happy life. The city's festivals are full of music, dancing, and laughter. It sounds like a dream come true.

The Hidden Truth of Omelas

The story reveals that Omelas's perfect life depends on one terrible condition. A single child is kept in a small, dark room. This child is neglected, dirty, and suffers greatly. The people of Omelas know about this child. They are taught about it when they are young.

The Purpose of the Suffering Child

The suffering of this one child is believed to ensure the happiness of everyone else. If the child were freed or comforted, the city's peace and prosperity would end. This creates a big moral problem for the citizens. They must decide if their happiness is worth another's pain.

The Choice: Stay or Leave?

When the citizens of Omelas become adults, they are shown the suffering child. This experience is very difficult for them. Most people feel shock, disgust, and sadness. They struggle with the idea that their perfect lives depend on such cruelty.

Different Reactions to the Truth

• Most people choose to stay in Omelas. They learn to accept the situation, believing it's the only way for their city to thrive. They might try to justify it or simply live with the guilt.
• Some people, however, cannot accept it. They walk away from Omelas. They leave the city and never return. The story does not say where they go, only that they walk into the unknown.

Why Some People Walk Away

Those who walk away cannot bear the moral burden. They choose to reject a happiness built on suffering. Their decision shows a strong sense of right and wrong. They prefer an uncertain future over a life that feels wrong.

Awards and Importance of the Story

"The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas" is a very important story in literature. It makes readers think deeply about ethics and society.

Hugo Award for Best Short Story

In 1974, the story won the Hugo Award for Best Short Story. The Hugo Awards are one of the highest honors in science fiction and fantasy writing. This award shows how much the story was admired by readers and critics.

Themes in the Story

The story explores several big ideas:

• Utilitarianism: This is the idea that the best action is the one that brings the greatest good for the greatest number of people. The city of Omelas is a harsh example of this idea.
• Moral Dilemmas: The story forces readers to think about difficult choices. Is it ever right to sacrifice one person's well-being for many others?
• Innocence and Experience: The children of Omelas lose their innocence when they learn about the suffering child. They gain a harsh understanding of the world.

See also

• In Spanish: Los que se alejan de Omelas para niños