Come Away, Come Away! explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Childhood vs. Adulthood

  Peter's passionate refusal to grow up contrasts with Wendy's nurturing instincts and the Darling parents' responsibilities.

• Imagination and Make-Believe

  Flying, fairies, and the Neverland are presented as real through belief and wonderful thoughts.

• Motherhood and Family

  Wendy is tempted by the role of mother to the Lost Boys, tucking them in and telling stories.

Characters to notice

• Peter Pan

  Persuades Wendy to come to Neverland, teaches flying, and reveals his desire to remain a boy forever.

• Wendy Darling

  Fascinated by Peter and fairies, agrees to go to Neverland to tell stories and care for the Lost Boys.

• John Darling

  Wakes up and is eager to learn flying, briefly takes command when hiding from Liza.

• Michael Darling

  Wakes up and joins the adventure, breathes loudly nearly giving away their hiding spot.

• Tinker Bell

  Jealous of Wendy, calls her names, and is accidentally shut in a drawer by Peter.

• Nana

  Barks to alert the Darlings, breaks her chain to fetch Mr. and Mrs. Darling from the party.

Key passages

• “I don't want ever to be a man. I want always to be a little boy and to have fun.”

  Peter rejects adulthood, preferring eternal childhood and play.

  Central to Peter's character and the theme of childhood vs. adulthood.

• “You just think lovely wonderful thoughts, and they lift you up in the air.”

  Flying is achieved by thinking happy, imaginative thoughts.

  Highlights the power of imagination in the story.

• “Wendy, do come with me and tell the other boys.”

  Peter invites Wendy to Neverland to be a storyteller for the Lost Boys.

  Key moment that sets the adventure in motion.