Daleks, despite their violent tendencies, represent apathy and complacency. They never question their actions but always do what they are told. They are good soldiers following orders hamsters on a wheel endlessly spinning until they drop and are replaced by another. They are resources. They cannot be considerate of the beings around them as they do not consider themselves to be people. They are things, and anything that is not like them is pointless. The daleks are a manifestation of our societys fear of the other, and our inability to move beyond that fear into acceptance that different does not equate with worthless. Evolution of the mind and heart requires effort and a willingness to remain open to new possibilities. The familiar is seductive and comforting and we seek to remain within its confines even when we know it is hurting us. As long as we continue to demonize what we do not understand the daleks will remain relevant within the Doctor Who mythology and within our own culture. The Doctor is in constant motion the bringer of chaos. The daleks track a straight line that never deviates, blind to any potential and possibility they may encounter. They are trapped within their own societal construct and they represent willful ignorance and the inability to think and act creatively.
Mary Ogle is the author and illustrator of “Orangeroof Zoo” a whimsical tale of magical realism told through the pages of a coloring book for adults. Working as a professional artist in the digital medium, Mary’s commissions have included everything from fine art to fan art, book cover design, illustration and book layout. Find more of Mary’s work at www.maryogle.com. Mary currently finds inspiration in the Ojai Valley, residing in a snug little cottage with a recalcitrant cat.
