Childhood Inspiration
As a little girl, I was fascinated by Peter Pan. My four-year-old heart wasn’t sure if I wanted to meet Peter Pan or if I wanted to be Peter Pan. His boundless spirit filled my dreams and fueled my imagination. I found myself wishing I too could sign up for a stint on the Jolly Roger in a world where adventure is the rule.
The Influence of Stage and Screen
As an adult, I drew inspiration from many interpretations of Peter Pan as I developed the characterization of Peter Pan in my novel Forever Is Eternity: the Disney animated classic, Barrie’s original story, and the musical stage play. Before the Pandemic, I saw a stage production of the latter at the Harbor Playhouse in Corpus Christi, Texas that simply blew me away. The young actor, Bailey Robers, who played Peter Pan was phenomenal, and watching the play brought sentimental tears to my eyes as I relived my childhood. I wanted to tell the actor how fabulous his performance was, but it was only right to stay back and let the children get their selfies. I suppose that’s where I thought of Frieda Fernsby, the kind-hearted mentor to Betty, who is given the chance to return to Neverland.
External link to the 2019 production article.
The stage play brought back memories of my childhood when, in the sanctuary of my bedroom, armed with an imaginary sword and a heart full of courage, I dueled from mattress to bedpost to dresser. With my baby sister in tow, I attempted to teach her the art of flying, convinced that with enough pixie dust and determination, we could soar above the clouds like Peter and his Lost Boys. What was I thinking? Needless to say, our mother did not approve.
Empowerment and Adventure: Peter Pan’s Influence on Young Dreamers
Peter Pan’s portrayal as a fearless adventurer who defies societal expectations resonates deeply with young girls, empowering them to embrace their own sense of adventure and independence. Peter Pan represents the freedom to chart one’s own course, to challenge conventions, and to hold onto the magic of childhood in a world that often pressures girls to grow up too quickly. Furthermore, Peter Pan embodies the hope for a brave, young protector who will not allow the bad guys to make his friends walk the plank, fostering a sense of security and empowerment in facing life’s challenges head-on. Peter Pan serves as a reminder that no matter the obstacles they may face, young girls have the power to soar to new heights and create their own adventures in life.
Though I may have outgrown my makeshift costumes and imaginary battles, the spirit of Peter Pan lives on within me, reminding me to always seek adventure and never stop believing in the power of magic.
So, here’s to Peter Pan, the boy who never grew up, and to Neverland, the place where dreams take flight. May we all find our own Neverland, where imagination knows no bounds and the impossible becomes possible.
