Themes: Perfection and Destruction
The theme of pursuing perfection to the point of self-destruction is explored in many important works. Mary Shelley’s development of this theme in Frankenstein can be seen through Victor, who seeks to utilize science in the absolute creation of perfection, the results of which prove to be disastrous. In Madame Bovary, Flaubert’s heroine, Emma, seeks to make her dreams a reality, and in the process she sows the seeds of her own and her family’s destruction. Gordimer continues this thematic tradition with her portrayal of the family in “Once Upon a Time.” Situated in an affluent suburb and not lacking material wealth, the family attempts to create a realm of perfection as they live the “perfect life.” They determine that the possibility of crime from the outside world, or their fear of “the other,” is the one element that prevents them from recognizing their vision of perfection. Their consuming pursuit of an ideal world leads to their inevitable destruction in the form of the son’s death.
As a character in “Once Upon a Time,” Gordimer proves to be willing to forgo the dream of perfection, and she understands that living with some level of fear and “the unknown,” whether it is in the reality of the outside world or in the sound of a creaking floorboard, is an inevitable component of living in the modern world.
Expert Q&A
How does "happily ever after" in "Once Upon a Time" differ from traditional fairy tales?
The phrase "happily ever after" is used differently in this story than in traditional fairy tales in that here, it is ironic, not sincere. The family does not live happily ever after by walling themselves off in their suburban dream home.
In "Once Upon a Time," do the husband and wife cause their own tragedy?
In "Once Upon a Time," the husband and wife are partially responsible for their son's tragic death. Their irrational fear and excessive security measures create a dangerous environment. The son's perception of these measures as toys, due to his familiarity, leads to the accident. While the couple's actions contributed, the story also implicates the "wise old witch," symbolizing societal and governmental fearmongering, suggesting multiple intertwined causes for the tragedy.
The significance and implications of the phrases "happily ever after" and "once upon a time" in Nadine Gordimer's "Once Upon a Time."
In Nadine Gordimer's "Once Upon a Time," the phrases "happily ever after" and "once upon a time" are used ironically. They highlight the contrast between the idealized, safe world of fairy tales and the harsh, dangerous reality of apartheid-era South Africa, ultimately questioning the possibility of such happy endings in real life.
The symbolic role of the cat in supporting the theme in "Once Upon a Time."
The cat in "Once Upon a Time" symbolizes the unintended consequences of excessive security measures. It effortlessly navigates the barriers meant to keep out intruders, highlighting the futility of the family's obsession with safety. This underscores the theme that an overemphasis on protection can lead to unforeseen and tragic outcomes.
Final Paragraph Analysis of "Once Upon a Time" and Its Thematic Significance
The final paragraph of Nadine Gordimer's "Once Upon a Time" underscores the story's central theme: the danger of seeking absolute security through isolation. The family's attempt to protect itself from perceived threats by installing razor wire ironically leads to their son's death, highlighting the futility and self-destructive nature of extreme measures to ensure safety. This tragic outcome reflects the broader political commentary on apartheid-era South Africa, emphasizing that barriers cannot guarantee peace but may instead cause harm.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.
