The Universality of Pan: Analyzing J.M. Barrie's Classic
Everyone grows up except one. This is the memorable opening line of "Peter Pan; or, the Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up", J.M. Barrie's celebrated book about escapism and almost never coming back (to reality). You expect to study this enchanted tale and write an essay about it. You're likely to recall Disney's animated version, which some Disney fans consider as one of the studio's finest works. And you should go to streaming as well. ("Finding Neverland" is probably the Barrie biographical film that would be recalled by many, if not most, viewers.) Your assignment on Peter Pan could be much more.
It would help if you have been to London, as an early chapter described Peter Pan's origin. ("I want always to be a little boy and to have fun. So I ran away to Kensington Gardens and lived a long, long time among the fairies.") A trip to the famous Kensington Gardens might not yield the results that you would hope for. After all, Meghan Markle might be around. Furthermore, the panorama of the Sunken Garden could remind you of another celebrated book. "The Secret Garden" is one of the notable titles under Children's literature, and there's a remote chance of studying it along with Peter Pan. There's nothing wrong about a quick mention, though. And your work is not yet done.
If you want to impress your professor, then you need to remember a few things.
Understanding the Imaginative and Literary Components of Peter Pan
Is Neverland a state of mind? The answer to that question may lie in this statement: "In his absence things are usually quiet on the island. The fairies take an hour longer in the morning, the redskins feed heavily for six days and nights, and when pirates and lost boys meet they merely bite their thumbs at each other. But with the coming of Peter, who hates lethargy, they are under way again: If you put your ear to the ground now, you would hear the whole island seething with life." It's not hard to guess that Peter Pan is the life and blood of Neverland, and that the final chapter would reveal that some of the characters have come all the way from London. Disney's version would show the iconic Big Ben, but Barrie didn't make any mention of it at all. Arguing about it would be pointless, as Neverland would be a reality if one was happy, innocent, and heartless. A sensitive kid might not get out of the window, but you're missing the point (again). Is Neverland a playground version of Shangri-La? The answer may not be good enough, as you need to look at the next question.
Does a trip to Neverland represent a rite of passage for young girls? You should have guessed it after you read that part where Mrs. Darling have kept the window open for Wendy, Michael, and John. The mother of three should have been to Neverland (during her much younger years), but it was a fuzzy memory to her. Furthermore, the final chapter narrated a bittersweet episode, where Jane, Wendy's daughter, would anticipate Peter Pan's arrival (and taking her to Neverland). If you happen to be a horror fan, then you could be reminded of "Horror of Dracula". Banish that thought, as Peter Pan could be seen as a sign of a young girl who is about to become a young lady. Agree?
How well do you know your (British) history? Peter Pan became part of public consciousness during the Edwardian Age. King Edward emphasized joy and innocence, a stark contrast to Queen Victoria's reign. It wasn't hard to see it, as Barrie described Peter Pan's expression while watching the reunion of the Darling family. There was a trace of bitterness, which showed when Pan rebuffed requests to stay in London and grow a beard. It also alluded to an unspoken tragedy, which wouldn't be surprising after reading Barrie's biography. Your professor would be more interested in your attempt in discussing the historical aspect of Pan. Britons are known for their polite manner, a peculiar sense of humor that isn't hard to fathom during the children's stay in Neverland. You may be tempted to add Captain Hook and Smee, but they would belong somewhere else.
What about the Gothic undercurrent? You could get a higher mark if you answer this question in detail. Hook would put you on wrong footing, though.
Can you include the popular adaptations of “Peter Pan”? Yes. You must not spend lots of time in it, like attempting to discuss Steven Spielberg’s blunder. (It’s no secret that the American filmmaker isn’t faithful to written materials.) And it would be better not to show Hook’s origin. (The box-office failure of “Pan” might make a good topic of conversation on a weekend.) It comes down to Disney’s adaptation, an undiluted version of joy and innocence. Too much of it won’t keep moviegoers away, but your assignment might stand out (after analyzing it).
One More Word
You should have penned a very interesting essay if you have included the possible undercurrents in “Peter Pan”, but don’t ever forget its universal appeal. This would be the reason behind its popularity (and why you’re writing about it).
