Without research or case studies I think the primary reason people cling to stories of the imagination is to escape. I’m not necessarily a fan of “escapism” through television, movies, books, etc., but I do understand (and often times enjoy thoroughly) the allure and joy found in a world of imagination and creativity.
I think there are several reasons why stories that challenge our imaginations are so popular and enjoyable:
- Deep inside I believe there is something in all of us that desires to live in a world without the present issues or pain (the Bible even says that all of creation “groans” for it, Rev. 8:22). Imaginary worlds typically try to escape those issues or create a hero to restore it to its intended paradise.
- We love creativity and uniqueness. Imaginary worlds allow us to explore creative ideas and looks. God created a world with so much color, creativity, and diversity. Seeing that beauty intrigues us to want to see and know more… to imagine the heavenly.
- We love heroes and saviors. We like it when good conquers evil and hope is abundant. Even though many recent movies and video games put audiences in the position of embracing evil (such as the video game series “Grand Theft Auto”) or questioning what is really evil (such as the movie “Watchmen”), few would truly enjoy a world of pure anarchy (such as the one the Joker tries to create in “The Dark Knight”). Imaginary worlds allow us to play out in our minds the victory of good over evil, light over dark.
- We despise the consequence of sin. We despise the results of our own decisions. Imaginary worlds allow us to imagine what life would be like if such consequences did not exist. Much like God desired in the beginning when He created the Universe. There was no sin, no pain, no punishment, just the pleasure of life in God’s presence.
“Peter Pan” (my all time favorite children’s story) tells the tale of the boy who wouldn’t grow up. In an enchanted world (Neverland) Peter, the hero, fought the evil Pirates, lived how he wanted, didn’t have responsibilities, flew, crowed and looked for adventure with the Lost Boys. It was the life and life wasn’t going to change because Peter never had to grow up. This is our greatest desire – a life without responsibility, pressure, pain or consequences…
HOWEVER…
…this is not our reality. We imagine as an escape, but like Harold (from “Harold and the Purple Crayon”) when the adventure’s over we are right back at “home” in our reality. We cannot truly escape reality… we can only await eagerly a day and time when what is anticipated becomes reality. Our imaginations are simply our reminder that we hope and look forward to something grander and more magnificent… something heavenly…
I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, “Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them. He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.” And [Christ] sitting on the throne said, “Look, I am making everything new!” (Rev. 21:3-5)
What a grand anticipation, indeed!
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NOTE: Photo is borrowed from http://www.flickr.com/photos/jcorduroy/2642110233/
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