What if it took place in a different setting?

If the Messenger by Lois Lowry took Place in a different setting then some symbolism and a bit of the plot might change. It could change by having no gaming machine, if this was in a time period where they didn't have they technology. Also the sewing machine in chapter 10 may not exist, or it may be something even better. Some of the plot might change by having the villagers have different ways of living. In chapter 6 it says, "... child whose eyes were thick with yellow mucus; it was common ailment of new ones, quickly healed with herbal mixtures." (Lowry, chap 6). This shows how they could fix thing with herbs, but if it was in a more modern time then medicine (pills, etc.) would be used.  Also, Matty may have never found the frog that helped him discover his abilities if it was in a time period or area where there wasn't a lot of wildlife/nature. Many little detail could change the novel bit by bit and it could eventually turn into a completely different story. In conclusion, symbolism and some of the plot could change if the novel had a different setting.

What if the Messenger took place in the future?