Doctor Who Review: Listen - 10 Ways The New Doctor Is Revealed
7. The Doctor Is Afraid Of The Dark
Fear of what we cannot see is a primal force. There may be an actual threat hiding in the shadows or we may be panicking at a thing that is unfamiliar to us. Clara comes upon a sobbing child only to discover it is the boy who will become the Doctor. In previous series we learn that Gallifreyan children are forced to gaze upon the Untempered Schism, a rip in the fabric of reality leaving them peering into the vastness of the Time Vortex. Perhaps this occurs shortly after that event? Having your world view, all the rules you were certain of, infinitely expanded and reconstructed must be terrifying. Its no surprise he was left jumping at shadows, he has no idea what real means any more. It is never made clear whether the threats in this episode are physical but it doesnt matter. Most monsters live in our heads. Clara gives the boy the permission he needs to be afraid of what hes seen. She also gives him the tools to not be ashamed or overwhelmed by it.
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.
