Back in the late 70s, I lived around the corner from a movie theater. I could clearly see the marquee from my bedroom window. When the first Christopher Reeve Superman movie came out, the marquee proclaimed, "You'll believe a man can fly." The reference was probably to the special effects , which were miles ahead of the Superman TV show from the 50s. (Wires were sometimes clearly visible when the TV Superman was "flying.") Or perhaps the logo on the marquee could be interpreted in another way. We all know that it is impossible for a man to fly without the aid of some machine, like an airplane, for example. At the same time, most or all of us are familiar enough with the Superman mythos, to know that, in the comic books, on TV, and in the movies, Superman can fly. To enjoy reading Superman stories, or watching Superman on the large or small screen, one must suspend belief. I went to see the Superman movie, and for 2 hours or so, I "believed" a man could fly. I certainly didn't believe it to the extent that I was going to jump off a roof and try flying myself, but I believed it while watching the movie, to the extent that I was able to enjoy the movie. At this point, i haven't read any of Nancy Wing's stories, but one characteristic of a good writer is that he or she can write a scenario that allows the reader to suspend belief. Apparently, she has this ability, and on your recommendation, I'm going to check her stories out. Thanks, Jimisim. |