Writings by me

Parenting has taught me many, many things. The latest: how to like…Star Wars.

I have never liked, or been inclined to like, the absolute cultural phenomenon that is Star Wars. I have always found it mind-boggling; too many characters, spinoffs, prequels, sequels and far too much merchandise.

Until now. While I will never, ever get on board with the sheer amount of merchandise, it’s safe to say I am pretty much hooked. Star Wars fever landed in our house by the time our eldest turned 5; as a 6 year old, he is completely obsessed. He is so obsessed that my 2 year old recognises, and can mimic the Star Wars theme music (indeed I’m sure he has been able to do this since he was 18 months old).

So as the old adage goes, if you can’t beat them, join them. For Christmas, my mother-in-law bought him A New Hope; the junior book of the film. Giving the book a go, I tried to continue my dislike. Impossible. There’s a reason why it is enduringly popular. Against my will, I found myself looking forward to reading to Freddie each night to find out what Darth Vader’s beef is, desperate to see Han Solo and Leia finally get it together and what gripes Luke is dealing with (read: whining about) this time. So to take the next step; after finishing the book, we watched the film. And wow; admittedly, Harrison Ford as Han Solo definitely, definitely helped, but I cannot believe I willingly resisted The Force for so long.

For me though, the absolute best thing about it? I am now officially a member of the Star Wars club in our household. I get the jokes, I know the difference between a stormtrooper and a biker scout and I can actually talk to my son about whether we can truly forgive Darth Vader just because of the power of the dark side (I mean, yes he died to save Luke, but he did some pretty bad things as Vader). What’s more? I don’t automatically glaze over when Freddie makes his lightsaber noises and we are so much closer because of it.