A Reading Life, A Writing Life, with Sally Bayley

Peter Pan

Oct 18, 2023

Sally and her neighbour discuss tree spirits and magical bracelets. She settles down to read Peter Pan and reflects on clouds and feelings. The chapter explores musings on being a cat, belief in spirits, and analysis of Tinkerbell. They discuss melancholy feelings brought on by rain and share a personal anecdote about J.M. Barry. The speaker explores the connection between J.M. Barry, Tinkerbell, and Kensington Gardens. Reflecting on childhood experiences and lessons of Peter Pan, the speaker recalls dancing with a girl named Wendy and compares it to a young girl embracing growing up.

32:57

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Words have mystical properties that can cast spells and evoke emotions.

Embracing maturity and dancing can be antidotes to the struggles of life.

Deep dives

The Power of Words and their Influence

In this podcast episode, the speaker reflects on the power of words and their ability to cast spells and evoke emotions. They discuss the idea that words are not merely tools of communication, but rather mystical entities with spiritual properties. The conversation touches on the belief in spirits and the afterlife, suggesting that spirits may inhabit various forms, such as trees. The speaker also reminisces about their childhood fascination with Peter Pan and the character of Tinkerbell, highlighting the contrast between the mischievous Tinkerbell and the practical wisdom embodied by the character Wendy.

Introduction

4min

Cats, Spirits, and Tinkerbell

17min

Reflections on Melancholy, Rain, and J.M. Barry

4min

Exploring J.M. Barry's Origins and Writing Location

2min

Growing up with Wendy

6min

"In the end she grew up of her own free will a day quicker than other girls."

Sally and her neighbour discuss tree spirits and magical bracelets on her narrowboat. As the rains draw in, Sally settles down to read J. M. Barrie’s Peter Pan. She thinks about clouds and feelings, listens to chamber music, and follows the story of Peter Pan from Kensington Gardens to Rustington-on-Sea. Our feelings have always been with us, like the weather. And on rainy days, it’s good to dance more.

Miss Cull, a frequent guest on the podcast, can also be found in Sally’s latest book, The Green Lady, available from all good booksellers.

Original music, ‘Wednesday’, by Paul Clarke.

Special thanks to Andrew Smith, Violet Henderson, Kris Dyer, and Maeve Magnus.

For Laetitia.

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