1. The Future
The Doctor's journey has come full circle. He is the prodigal son the child who ran away from home, has grown up and now seeks to return. Will he be welcomed with open arms? It seems doubtful. The struggle to find home is a common theme of the hero's journey. It is filled with conflict, as the hero must battle the forces of evil and his own fear before completing his quest. This is a seismic shift in the show's story line. In the past "Doctor Who" was more about the companions and how their lives were changed by their travels with the Doctor. Now the focus is centered on the Doctor's story and his epic quest. It's an entirely different way of examining the character and his mythology and an incredibly brave risk to take. I don't know if Steven Moffat can pull this off, though I wouldn't bet against him. He has an innate sense of how the Doctor's world works and an incredible ability to fashion a compelling story. Spectacular failures are always more worthwhile than mediocre successes anyway because they change you. Taking chances is the only way to open your mind to new understanding. To be honest I'm not sure I really care whether the Doctor ever makes it to Gallifrey. But I am absolutely invested in the journey he takes to get there.