Silly Daddy in the Shadow of Gulliver's Travels
Essay by Joe Chiappetta
When reading classic literature, it is remarkable how characters can turn from good to bad in such a short yet believable time period. Such is the case with a number of the supporting characters in Gulliver's Travels: a bold and timeless example of the corruption and arrogance that all too often comes to persons in power.
By contrast it refreshing to see Gulliver maintain a stance of honor-ability and fairness despite his far-from-home troubles. That's what classic heroes are made of.
Reading through this masterpiece novel with my children before we tuck them in, I try to cover two chapters per night. In doing so, I typically end the first chapter by slowly putting the book down, acting sleepy, and saying, "Okay kids, this story sure is getting good. But it's also getting late. Should we stop there?"
Of course, with great urgency, my kids yell, "No! You can't possibly stop there! Keep reading!" All the while they are tugging on me earnestly, and presenting their most innocent faces for my consideration.
Therefore the kids are able to squeeze one more chapter out of me. I don't mind. From a Lilliputian perspective, our nights reading together make for giant-sized quality time.
Moreover, this reminds me of another giant-sized influence in my life. Her name is Maria. She's my mom. That dear and often unsung woman spent countless hours reading to me when I was a child. Her commitment to the family prepared me for my own travels in an era perhaps even more complex than that of 18th century Gulliver--and I thank her for it.
Illustration for this essay is an ink pen and marker drawing on paper by Joe Chiappetta 2010.
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