Pinocchio's lessons

There's nothing subtle about The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collidi. First published as a book in 1883 — installments were printed in an Italian magazine for children previously — the story tells how a disobedient puppet becomes a boy (after first becoming a donkey). Today more people are familiar with film versions or Golden Book versions than the novel itself — and for good reason. The tale is just too heavy-handed for modern audiences of whatever age.

Time and again, Pinocchio promises to obey instructions, go to school, study hard, etc., then becomes distracted. He yields to temptation. Each time he does, disaster strikes. He is cheated. He is taken prisoner. He is nearly eaten. He is swallowed by a fish. He is, as mentioned, turned into a donkey. And of course, when he lies, his nose grows to uncommon lengths.

The book's lessons are made clear and obvious to any reader. The golden rule works best for all. Those who disobey will get in trouble. Liars pay for their sins. Yet one wonders whether Collidi might actually have been teaching just the opposite of the intended lessons. Mischievous little boys might notice:

1. Some kind soul invariably rescues Pinocchio and gives him another chance.

2. Once Pinocchio becomes a good boy, his adventures end.