If only real life were as awe-inspiring and amazing as life in Willy Wonka's factory. Every chapter of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory has a new and fascinating invention. But we're not meant to just gawk at everything we see. There's something deeper going on with all this amazement. Charlie, after all, was awed by the factory long before he ever set foot in it. In fact, it seems like part of the reason Charlie kept persevering despite his tough situation is that he manages to find joy and inspiration even just by walking by the place. Plus, it's clear that Willy Wonka, who's been running this joint for decades, still finds just about everything in the place amazing. So perhaps we're meant to understand that Charlie and Willy Wonka have it right: the world can be an amazing place, if only you remember to appreciate it (instead of, say, watching television).
Questions About Awe and Amazement
- What do you think Charlie thinks is the most amazing room in the chocolate factory? What do you think is the most amazing room? What about it is so amazing?
- Is there any part of the story where someone isn't amazed?
- Do you think the other children on the factory tour are as amazed as Charlie? Why or why not? Who's more amazed: Charlie or Grandpa Joe? What in the story makes you think so?
Chew on This
The point of Charlie's visit to the chocolate factory is to show that awe and amazement are an important part of growing up. He must hang on to these feelings in order to be happy in life.
Willy Wonka isn't awe-inspiring – he's annoying.