Why was Thomas so disoriented and confused in Ch. 1? Who was he finally greeted by? How?

Thomas awakens in a dark metal room which he quickly realizes is an ascending elevator. He can only remember his name but nothing else about his life. He has no idea where he is or where he is going. Most importantly, he has no idea why any of this is happening. Thomas is perplexed by his memory loss. He can recall images of the world but cannot remember anyone in it. He cannot remember his parents’ faces or a single conversation he has ever had with anyone.

The elevator comes to a halt and Thomas is left in darkness for several minutes. He tries to find a way out but cannot. He begins banging on the walls frantically, calling out for help. There is no answer. Finally, there is a loud clang and the doors begin to open above him. The light outside blinds him. He hears voices.

As his eyes adjust he sees that he is surrounded by other boys roughly his age, all teenagers. A rope is lowered down to him. He hesitates but finally grabs hold and is pulled up out of the elevator. One boy greets him with words Thomas knows he will never forget: “Welcome to the Glade.”