'Fairy tales do not tell children the dragons exist. Children already know that dragons exist. Fairy tales tell children the dragons can be killed.'
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Fairy tales acknowledge known fears but teach that they can be overcome.
- In plain terms
- Stories show kids they can defeat their fears.
- What can you take from it?
- Fear is manageable when you believe you can fight it.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What fears do you face daily?
- How do stories help you cope?
Another view
It assumes children can always overcome fears with effort.
More from Gilbert Keith Chesterton
Fairy tales are more than true - not because they tell us dragons exist, but because they tell us dragons can be beaten.
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Permalink to quote #187 I do not believe in a fate that falls on men however they act; but I do believe in a fate that falls on them unless they act.
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