Utopia in the Little Princes

Utopia is a imaginative place that possesses near perfect qualities but when sought out is rarely found. Due to its natural appeal to humans utopia is often found as a central theme in literature. The Little Princes by Conor Grennan shows how places can symbolize utopia and how the utopia positively affects and develops human traits. Despite violence, poverty and anarchy, the Draconian county of Nepal symbolizes utopia by allowing Conor and the Nepali children to develop patience, become empathetic and discover themselves.

The utopian qualities of Nepal allow Conor and his friend, Farid, to experience a unique environment which commences their journey of self-discovery. Farid travels to Nepal identifying as agnostic, but after experiencing Nepal’s distinct and diverse culture, is converted to Buddhism: “Buddhists recognize it. They see life as purposeful. I began to learn about Buddhism and I knew - for me - it was right”(246). Farid comes to Nepal with one noble focus; to help orphaned children. Unintentionally, the harrowing experience of witnessing suffering and corruption leads Farid to seek out an idealism that resonates with him. Poverty and violence are typically considered pillars of a dystopian society, but it presents Farid with an opportunity to reflect and think about what happiness truly means to him. Consequently, it is because Farid experiences the Utopia of Nepal that he is able to realize where he belongs and how to live life to its fullest. In a similar way, Nepal has enables Conor to find a sincere belonging in life.

“I could not think of a single thing I would have done differently over the past several years. Each one of those things had led me to this moment - to be walking back into a hospital that, in a...

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...tude into a proactive one. Waiting on the mountain gives Conor time to understand the hardships of others and realize his trivial conditions. The patience that comes with waiting allows Conor to clear his mind before setting out on a treacherous hike to Kathmandu. Patience is an important trait to develop, one which helps Conor become a stronger yet pensive individual.

Although Nepal might seem like a disaster at first glance it has enabled its citizens and visitors to become patient, embrace gratefulness and define their lives. It is easy to argue that Nepal is dystopia because of its corruption, violence and poverty; however, it is through these inconveniences that people grow and become stronger. Therefore, meaning the effect that it has on people comes from a utopia. “If you find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn’t lead anywhere.” - Frank A. Clark