Sarah Bourdeau
asked:
I'm a bit confused as to what the purpose of the demigod in the book was. It felt like a random thing in the middle of the book and like it didn't really fit in. Does anybody know or have any ideas as to why it was included?
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Kasia
I suggest reading this article, https://lettersrepublic.wordpress.com...
Liz Mandeville
I think that since these were animals who lived in the wilds it was entirely fitting that "the Green Man," the Great Pan, lord of the forest, would look out for an innocent youngling off on his own. My mother used to say "God protects innocents and fools" and I think that young otter was a little of both.
I also loved the magical act of forgetfulness that the God dispensed to keep those same young things innocent. To me it was the antithesis of a Christian scene as Pan is a pagan God from before the advent of the Christian dominance. I liked that Pagan virtues were expressed throughout the story. These animals did the right thing, not because they were afraid of a vengeful god or damnation or punishment, just because it was the right thing to do. Like talking your friend out of doing criminal acts with a car or helping a fellow creature lost in a snowstorm.
I also loved the magical act of forgetfulness that the God dispensed to keep those same young things innocent. To me it was the antithesis of a Christian scene as Pan is a pagan God from before the advent of the Christian dominance. I liked that Pagan virtues were expressed throughout the story. These animals did the right thing, not because they were afraid of a vengeful god or damnation or punishment, just because it was the right thing to do. Like talking your friend out of doing criminal acts with a car or helping a fellow creature lost in a snowstorm.
Karen
It shows the deeper spiritual side of the creatures in the book, a counterbalance to the materialism of Toad, and the rationalism of Ratty.
Melanie
Odd, wasn't it? I liked it, but I agree it didn't fit in with this book. There should have been more of it, or none of it.
Negin
It was the same for me. When I read it I was mostly confused.
Joan E Liut
This is a very Christian scene. Pan is the divine incarnate, like Christ. I see it as quite devout and religious.
Rita
This isn't really a question, but a blank spot in my memory. I don't remember anything about Pan. I guess I'll have to go back to the book. Is it possible I read a different version?
Belinda Mellor
I think it was a little bit of author indulgence. I read somewhere that his publishers weren't keen on it, so perhaps there was more and this was all that remained, as it is a stand alone piece. Perhaps he wrote it as a short story and not knowing what else to do with it popped it in, in this particular place, to indicate the passing of time while Toad was incarcerated. I have to say it is my favourite chapter. There is something really deep and mystical about it.
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