Summary

In paragraph 7, the narrator explains that between the ages of eight and twelve, the citizens of Omelas are told of the existence of the child. Those who come to see the child are generally young, but occasionally adults come to see the child for the first time or even for a second time. The young citizens who come to see the child are always disgusted and outraged by its circumstances. They would like to do something to save the child, but they know that doing something would result in the destruction of Omelas and its people.

In the eighth paragraph, the narrator describes how the young people return to their lives to brood over the horrific circumstances of the child and the paradox of the foundation of their civilization. However, the memories gradually fade in light of their daily lives, and they are able to...