Nightmares, Too

I came across this description on the ‘net:

There is a place called Neverland – filled with children amidst innocence and laughter.

Does that sound right to you?
Technically, it shouldn't.

One of the misconceptions of the Neverland is that it’s a bright, happy place full of dreams, laughter and cheery adventures.

I don’t wish to take that notion away from people, nor do I mean to say that it is absolutely incorrect. It can be, certainly.

However, we must not ignore the fact that there are just as many nightmares as there are dreams!

Think about it. Peter Pan touts it as a wonderful place to be - a happy-go-lucky escape from the doldrums of adulthood. He entices us. But when you arrive, you quickly learn the truth.
Nearly everything in the Neverland is out to get you. To kill you.

Sure, what child doesn’t dream of sparing with pirates and hunting with “Indians.” Who would refuse a lagoon filled with mermaids and forests fluttering with fairies? Yes, such delights do exist there, no denying it. But by the same token, those pirates aren’t a fantasy. They’re bloodthirsty villains bent on attack. Before Pan saved Tiger Lily and befriended them, the Redskins were (and still can be) just as likely to strike. And those mermaids? Let’s have a look at what Barrie says:

The most haunting time at which to see them is at the turn of the moon, when they utter strange wailing cries; but the lagoon is dangerous for mortals then …

While she stitched a change came to the lagoon. Little shivers ran over it, and the sun went away and shadows stole across the water, turning it cold. Wendy could no longer see to thread her needle, and when she looked up, the lagoon that had always hitherto been such a laughing place seemed formidable and unfriendly.

It was not, she knew, that night had come, but something as dark as night had come. No, worse than that. It had not come, but it had sent that shiver through the sea to say that it was coming. What was it?

It is, of course, the pirates coming. Didn't I just warn you about them? And for the record, even the pirates can be scared on the island.

Smee and Starkey clung to each other in terror. (In reference to thinking spirits are near.)

And let us not forget that the mermaids try to drown Wendy.

Wild animals abound…wolves, coyotes, bears...oh my.

Barrie’s fairies will just as soon “mischief” you as dance to Peter’s pipes.

And I haven’t even mentioned the massive crocodile. Granted, it’s after the Captain, but I wouldn’t want to meet up with it…would you?

Just putting in my two cents as a reminder. It's become a bit of a pet peeve of mine, this belief that the island is only bright, beauteous and magical.

The Neverland is indeed a fanciful place... but not all peaches and cream. It’s savage and brutal and you must always keep on your toes…and hope that Peter Pan is in the mood to save you when you’re in danger.