(My Extremely Distant Cousin)
So, I have a friend/collaborator here this weekend and hope to do a more proper post tomorrow but wanted to discuss my recent completion of The Jungle Books by Rudyard Kipling. This book was a Christmas present from my aforementioned friends the S family of Sicilia. First of all, I am not a student of the history of literature for children, but it does seem to set the tone for the sort of rampant anthropomorphism of animals prevalent in today's literature and may I say ... I love it. Though of course many believe animals act on instinct alone, Kipling's portrayal of the animal's characteristics through their personalities, philosophies and politics really is rather interesting. Perhaps most amazing are the first hand descriptions of each war animal's duties and how they react to them. Also, elephants are such highly intelligent animals, it would be fascinating to understand just how they do process information, learn and think. Humorously, it was odd to see just how benevolent Kipling thought a 24' man-eating crocodile could consider himself. In the end, it all really does depend on one's perspective I suppose. After all, that crocodile could have eaten MANY, MANY more people than he did, but he did not as he rather liked the village and the marigold wreaths they floated in the water for him... but of course he also liked the occasional snack of a villager or bridge builder.
(Me and my trusty Rhino)
The other comment I have on this relates to the inherent darkness of some of the themes presented, namely those of death, absolute power, evil, hatred, witchcraft, intolerance, etc. Having always loved kids and especially watching them learn, I always thought sheltering them from things that could hurt them was the whole point of being a parent. However, through many of the children I interact with, it seems they are aware of these things out there in the world and even somewhat fascinated by them in a naive, playful, curious kind of way. With deference to my dear and adorable friend KS, there really could not be a Peter Pan without a Captain Hook after all. Perhaps acknowledging these themes, discussing them and showing both examples of people who fought against them and succeeded as well as those who were perhaps undone by the darker aspects of our world, we actually strengthen them more by both being honest with them and allowing their imaginations to work out the consequences of all actions, not just good ones. Anyway, in the uncertain world we live in with war, poverty, intolerance, illiteracy and many other realities that deeply sadden me; imagination, openness and strength seem like good things for the next generation to have as much of as possible.
So did Whitney give you that picture of me?!!
ReplyDeleteSo glad you liked the book! As far as child-rearing goes, I think you're right in both respects. A parent should shelter their children from as much real atrocity as possible, even while encouraging them explore darkness in their play. Captain Hook may capture you and chop off your head in the middle of the afternoon (though he's just as likely to invite you to a teapary), but at night it's important to whisk it all away and remember the world is safe. After all, as J.M. Barrie tells us, that's why we have nightlights. Oh, and if you haven't read _Peter Pan_ yet, you really should. You'll love it.
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