Childhood Dreams and Adult Reality: The Path to Understanding

A Philosophical and Psychological Lecture Through the Lens of English Literature

In childhood, we see the world as an endless expanse of possibilities. We dream of becoming astronauts, artists, writers, or heroes of great stories. In our young minds, there are no limits, and the future seems bright and exciting. However, as we grow up, reality imposes its own rules—circumstances, responsibilities, and societal expectations come to the forefront. This raises an important question: do childhood dreams really come true, or do they inevitably fade under the weight of adult life?

Literature, especially English literature, has long explored this theme. From Great Expectations by Charles Dickens to Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie, many writers have questioned whether childhood dreams survive their clash with reality or inevitably transform. Childhood dreams are shaped by various influences. Imagination and fairy tales create the illusion of infinite possibilities, as reflected in literature: Alice from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll perceives the world through the lens of fantasy, filling it with magic and absurdity. However, societal expectations begin to limit these dreams, as seen in Great Expectations, where Pip aspires to become a gentleman but ultimately realizes that his notions of success were imposed by others. Childhood is also a time of experimentation and self-discovery, beautifully illustrated in The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. While Tom remains in the realm of play, dreams seem attainable, but adult life gradually shifts this perspective.

Over time, the realization of limitations sets in. Society dictates its rules, and many must adapt, as happens with Jane Eyre, whose dreams of independence and love clash with rigid class and gender norms. Growing up brings not only responsibility but also doubt, much like Hamlet, who embodies the fear of the unknown and a crisis of identity. A shift in values also plays a significant role: while dreams may seem unchanging in youth, over time, people begin to seek fulfillment elsewhere. David Copperfield, for example, ultimately finds happiness not in status or wealth but in love and personal growth.

However, existential philosophy asserts that individuals create their own destiny. Viktor Frankl wrote that meaning can be found even in difficult circumstances. Many literary characters undergo this journey of realization: Jay Gatsby spends his life chasing an idealized dream, only to realize that reality is incompatible with his vision of the past. In contrast, Jo March from Little Women adapts her dreams, understanding that happiness is not just in fame but in writing, family, and self-fulfillment.

But is it possible to maintain a connection with childhood dreams? Reevaluating one’s desires is the first step: perhaps the dream has not disappeared but has simply taken a different form. Freeing oneself from imposed stereotypes, as Jane Eyre, Jo March, and even Holden Caulfield from The Catcher in the Rye did, allows for the pursuit of a personal path. It is also important to take real steps: even if dreams change, they do not vanish but transform into new goals. Literature teaches us that the journey toward a dream is often more important than the final outcome.

So, do childhood dreams align with reality? Sometimes they do, sometimes they don’t. But even when dreams change, their essence remains within us. The key is to remember the child within—the one who once dreamed boldly—and to allow them to keep dreaming. And you, do you remember what you once dreamed of as a child?

Professor Victoria. 2025.