As Chapter 6 begins, Jonas' family unit is preparing to go to the December Ceremony, which lasts for two days. By describing the rules that each peer group must follow, Lowry emphasizes the theme of individuality versus conformity. We learn that Fours, Fives, and Sixes are required to wear jackets that button up the back. With buttons on the back, the children are forced to help each other button and unbutton the jackets and thus will learn interdependence. Sevens receive front-button jackets, symbols of independence. Girls must wear hair ribbons until they become Nines, and Eights begin volunteering and wearing jackets with smaller buttons and pockets. The pockets symbolize the responsibility and maturity of all Eights. Tens get their hair cut; male Elevens receive longer pants, and female Elevens receive new underwear because their bodies are physically changing.
Just when we begin to doubt that this community is really such a good place to live in after all, Lowry interjects normalcy. Lily "fidgets" as her mother braids her hair, Jonas and Lily joke and tease each other, and their mother wants to leave early to get a good seat in the Auditorium for the Ceremony. This scene is not unlike a scene in any family.
