Two weeks ago I spoke about the 100th anniversary of The Velveteen Rabbit, noting the publication of Lisa Frautino’s retrospective of the celebrated book. That post reviewed Margery Williams’ life but did not really address its enduring appeal. That is today’s subject: why did the story originally resonate and why does it still appeal to both young and adult audiences alike?
The tale of a stuffed rabbit’s desire to become real was first published in Harper’s Bazaar in 1921, featuring illustrations from Williams’ daughter Pamela Bianco. It came out in book form in 1922 but illustrated by British illustrator, William Nicholson and has been republished many times since, captivating readers with its timeless charm and heartwarming themes.
From past posts, readers will know that: i) I consider book illustration of equal importance to the story, ii) animal fantasy is my chosen genre and iii) William Nicholson is one of my favorite illustrators. Thus the choice of Nicholson – who easily captures the tone of the tale – as the illustrator for this endearing book triples my delight.
Very much in the style of Hans Christian Anderson, the story is told from the toys’ perspective. Humans remain largely as objects. Save for the insightful “Nana”, the nanny who rescues the rabbit from oblivion, none are even named, not even the “Boy” who receives the stuffed animal as a present. All the toys are anthropomorphic, given personalities suited to their nature and stature. Only a couple of the other toys are named: Timothy, the off-putting wooden lion, and the kindly Skin Horse. The opening of the Christmas stocking is presented – the initial excitement wears off after a mere two hours amid all the unwrapping of yet more presents and the modest rabbit is soon forgotten.
(New York: Doubleday, 1991; reprint of the original 1922 version)
A social order amongst the toys exists, much like in human society. The mechanical toys are “very superior” and pretend to be real. The expensive, elaborate ones snub the modest sawdust-filled rabbit, who now feels insignificant and common place. Soon enough, however, the expensive “mechanical” toys break and lose favor, eventually leaving the old, tried and trusted playthings to take their place. Only the longer-surviving toys like the Skin Horse understand and try to explain the truth to the rabbit. Ultimately, he becomes the favored playmate of the Boy, as treasured and loved as any toy can be. Unfortunately, illness intercedes – the boy comes down with highly contagious scarlet fever, back in the early 1920’s a potentially fatal illness. He is quarantined with only the rabbit as his companion.
When the boy finally recovers, the rabbit, having been exposed to the illness, is deemed contaminated and destined for the fire pit.
Throughout the story the rabbit wishes to be and tries to come to grips with what it is to be Real, but being “Real to the Boy” and being “Real to every one” are two different things. Ultimately, since this is a fairy tale, a fairy makes the wish come true: instead of dingy velveteen he now has brown fur, soft and shiny, with twitching ears and long whiskers. Most of all he has long hind legs, finding a home in the world outside, with the Real rabbits.
The core of the story’s effectiveness lies in its ability to establish a deep connection with readers. The rabbit’s journey from mere toy to becoming real evokes a range of emotions – from empathy and compassion to joy and nostalgia. The longing for authenticity and the power of love to transform even the most ordinary into something extraordinary resonate with readers, who become invested in the characters and themes.
These are universal themes, transcending age and time. The concept of being ‘real’ goes beyond the physical realm, addressing the idea of genuine relationships, acceptance, and finding one’s place in the world. The rabbit’s quest to be loved and recognized mirrors the human desire for validation and acceptance, making the story relatable to readers of all ages. Additionally, themes of impermanence and the bittersweet nature of growing up evoke that sense of nostalgia, something adults can appreciate, reminding them of their own childhood.
The character development in the story is another factor contributing to its effectiveness. The rabbit evolves from a timid, unsure toy to a wise, compassionate, and ‘real’ being. Through its interactions with other toys, particularly the wise Skin Horse, it learns the true meaning of love and life. This transformation underscores the importance of experience and the process of becoming genuine, imparting valuable lessons to readers of all ages.
The story’s lessons – from the ephemeral nature of material possessions to the power of love and sacrifice – impart insights without being preachy. The storytelling, imagery and illustrations enhance the tale’s effectiveness, engaging readers and painting a captivating world filled with emotion. The narrative’s simplicity allows young readers to comprehend the underlying themes while adults appreciate its nuanced layers. As a result, The Velveteen Rabbit remains relevant across generations and throughout the passage of time.
Cover Photo by Gary Bendig on Unsplash
