Posted by Rebecca on December 18, 1998 at 02:06:57:
In Reply to: Dot and Dick posted by Robert Dilley on December 17, 1998 at 15:50:44:
As Jon points out, there is a recurring theme of the S&A life going on forever regardless of adulthood. I think lots of kids, whether siblings or best friends, like to imagine adult life together. It is a dream of when you finally have control over your life and don't have to live according to your parents' and schools' wishes. Also, Dick and Dot are thrown together on their own a lot due to their father's archaeological activities which frequently take both him and Mrs Callum away from home, creating a strong sibling bond. As for Dick being above Dot in the children's hierachy, as the only scientist Dick has an important role in the group. Dot is not a terribly confident child, she retreats into never-finished fantasy writing and is desperate to belong (unlike Dick who is oblivious to social currents). Plus Dot's potential role as storyteller and fantasist is already filled by Titty's more appropriate stories and inventions. The only role left to her is as supporter and PA to Dick, poor girl. I always thought Dot's character reflects us, the readers. Able to be part of the group, but really always on the outside.