Walters Daydreams in The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

In the timeless tale of "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" by James Thurber, the eponymous protagonist frequently escapes into his daydreams as a means of coping with his mundane and unfulfilling life. These daydreams, which range from heroic acts to romantic encounters, provide Walter with an escape from reality and allow him to live out his deepest desires. This essay will explore the reasons behind Walter Mitty's daydreaming tendencies and analyze the implications of his behavior. By delving into the psychology behind Walter's daydreaming, we can gain a deeper understanding of his character and the themes of the story.

One possible reason for Walter Mitty's daydreaming is his dissatisfaction with his everyday life. Throughout the story, it becomes clear that Walter feels trapped in a monotonous routine and longs for excitement and adventure. His daydreams allow him to temporarily break free from the constraints of his reality and experience a more thrilling existence. For example, when Walter imagines himself as a courageous pilot, he is able to escape his mundane job and become a hero in his own mind. This desire for escapism is a common motive for daydreaming, as individuals seek to alleviate boredom and find solace in a fantasy world.

Another factor that contributes to Walter's daydreaming is his lack of control over his own life. In his day-to-day existence, Walter is constantly bombarded with demands and criticisms from his wife, who often undermines his self-confidence. His daydreams provide him with a sense of power and agency that is lacking in his real life. Through his fantasies, Walter can be the hero, the lover, or the successful individual he wishes to be. This escape from the pressures and expectations of his reality gives him a temporary respite from his feelings of inadequacy.

Furthermore, Walter's daydreams serve as a coping mechanism for his deep-seated fears and anxieties. Throughout the story, he faces various challenges and potential dangers, such as driving in heavy traffic or undergoing a medical examination. These situations trigger Walter's daydreams, allowing him to imagine himself handling these obstacles with skill and confidence. By engaging in these fantasies, Walter is able to alleviate his anxiety and gain a sense of control over his fears. The daydreams act as a form of self-soothing, enabling him to confront his anxieties in a safe and controlled environment.

In addition to the psychological reasons behind Walter's daydreaming, there are also societal factors at play. The story is set in the mid-20th century, a time when conformity and societal expectations were prominent. Walter, as a middle-aged man, is expected to fulfill certain roles and conform to societal norms. However, his daydreams reflect a desire to break free from these constraints and live a life that is true to his own aspirations. By daydreaming, Walter rebels against the societal expectations placed upon him and allows himself to explore his true desires and ambitions.

In conclusion, Walter Mitty's daydreaming tendencies in "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" can be attributed to his dissatisfaction with his everyday life, his lack of control, his coping mechanism for fears and anxieties, and his rebellion against societal expectations. Through his daydreams, Walter finds an escape from the mundane and unfulfilling aspects of his existence, allowing him to briefly live out his deepest desires and fantasies. By understanding the reasons behind Walter's daydreaming, we gain insight into his character and the themes of the story. The tale serves as a poignant reminder of the power of the imagination and the importance of pursuing one's dreams.