Fantasy

An alternative perspective on fantasy media.

This flash animation was designed for LIT 3311 – The Literature of Fantasy and Science Fiction (Oz, Narnia, & Hogwarts) at UTD in Fall 2008.

Launch

Experience the perspective!

Explanation

To us, he is the boy who captivated millions but to others Harry Potter is the boy who lived to be the greatest wizard of all time. The intense fascination with the Hogwarts novels runs just as deep with the Narnia series and the Wizard of Oz books.

Children and adults alike have become obsessed with the books leading to grossly profitable products. Unearthly lines and never-ending demand have led many to take a closer look at this generational phenomenon. Every Halloween since the release of these literary works there has been an upsurge in the appearance of Hermiones, Dorothies, Lucy Pevensies and the sort. An interest in these books is not immediately condemned as an unhealthy dedication, but can however serve as case for discourse. With all due respect to the writers’ literary finesse, some readers have forgotten to what real beauty is — conversations have centered on potions, character wars, and what happened at such and such fictitious place.

The media has managed to capture the growing sentiment in everything from board games to themed bed spreads. So if you fail fan eye exam on purpose, just so that you can get round glasses like Harry’s or start looking into how to get reserved seats and tickets for the next six films its time to go outside and smell the roses. In fact, while your out, take stroll watch the birds, breathe some fresh air, get some sun on your skin, and put a smile on your face. Nature and Humanity are vastly more important that what Harry’s latest quest.

Disclaimer: This is a dark view that may be hard for some to hear. I do understand the importance of fantasy literature, but nothing is good in excess.

Albert Einstein once said, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.” But surely leading a healthy and productive life is worthwhile as well.