Bambi, penned by Austrian novelist Felix Salten (born Sigmund Salzmann), stands as a distinguished work of children's literature, acclaimed by literary figures such as John Chamberlain, Alfred Werner, and John Galsworthy. Its timeless appeal has been bolstered by numerous reprints and translations into languages like Hebrew and Chinese. Unlike many tales adapted by Disney, Bambi eschews the trappings of whimsical humor and comfortable sentimentality, offering instead a poignant, lyrical exploration of growth and awareness.

The Inspiration Behind the Melancholy

Salten's own early experiences of rootlessness and poverty likely infuse the novel's underlying melancholy. Once destitute and friendless, a fortuitous intervention by a relative set him on a path out of despair, allowing him to develop his literary talents. Initially writing sketches, Salten's style was influenced by Guy de Maupassant and Gottfried Keller. Bambi's success opened opportunities for Salten to create more children's nature books, including Fifteen Rabbits and Perri. Beyond juvenile fiction, Salten also produced travel literature and criticism, showcasing his appreciation for his adopted homelands, the United States and Israel.

Lessons from the Forest

To the child reader, Bambi offers a vivid animal fable that mirrors human experiences. The story imparts lessons of growing up, gaining independence, dealing with loss, and embracing change. Unlike fairy tales that rely on magical resolutions, Bambi presents life events as natural occurrences. At its heart, the narrative confronts two significant emotional challenges for children: the estrangement from a father and the death of a mother. Through these trials, Bambi becomes self-reliant, earning respect from his fellow forest dwellers as he matures.

Bambi's Journey to Independence

Bambi's journey involves understanding his perennial adversary, Man, overcoming sexual rivals, and forging a bond with his mate, Feline, with whom he fathers offspring. Central to his maturation is his relationship with the Old Prince, a father figure who provides protection and wisdom from afar. The Old Prince's philosophy, encapsulated in the challenge, "Can’t you stay by yourself?", encourages Bambi towards resolute independence. In contrast, Gob's tragic demise, due to misplaced trust in Man, underscores the importance of self-reliance.

Ultimately, Bambi learns to navigate life with an indifference to comfort and a reliance on self-sufficiency. He becomes adept at shielding himself from numerous dangers, yet simultaneously exhibits compassion by safeguarding the defenseless. Through Bambi's narrative, Salten conveys a profound message of survival and resilience in a world often perceived as hostile. This theme resonates not only with children but also with adults, offering a universal commentary on the human condition.