Surprising parallels: How The Changeling is similar to "The Wizard of Oz" by L. Frank Baum

In the episode "Asterisk" of The Changeling, Victor LaValle explores the transformative power of water and raises questions about the presence of witches in the area. As Victor and Patrice navigate through a series of encounters and revelations, they find themselves onboard a boat with a man named William, who offers them a significant sum of money for a book. The plot takes a twist when it is discovered that something has been stolen, adding tension to the already complex situation.While the episode delves into various themes and plot points, it inadvertently draws parallels to L. Frank Baum's timeless classic, "The Wizard of Oz." By examining the underlying themes of both sources, we can uncover intriguing connections between the episode and the beloved tale of Dorothy's journey to the magical Land of Oz.One of the most obvious similarities between "Asterisk" and "The Wizard of Oz" is the transformative power of water. In the episode, water becomes a symbol of change and rebirth. Victor reflects on the profound impact of water and its ability to wash away sins, heal wounds, and bring about transformation. This idea resonates with "The Wizard of Oz" when Dorothy and her companions encounter the Wicked Witch of the West and accidentally dissolve her with a bucket of water. In both stories, water acts as a catalyst for profound and irreversible change.Another interesting comparison is the presence of witches. In "Asterisk," the question of whether witches exist in the area looms in the background. This echoes the presence of witches in "The Wizard of Oz," where both the Good Witch of the North and the Wicked Witch of the West play significant roles in Dorothy's journey. Both narratives explore the notion of powerful and mysterious beings capable of shaping destinies and influencing the lives of the protagonists.The episode introduces William, a character who offers Victor and Patrice a substantial sum of money for a book. This plot point bears a striking resemblance to the concept of the Emerald City and the Wizard of Oz himself. In Baum's novel, Dorothy and her companions seek the aid of the Wizard, hoping he can grant their wishes and help them find their way home. Similarly, William becomes a figure who possesses the potential to fulfill desires and assist with the reunion of estranged families.Moreover, both "Asterisk" and "The Wizard of Oz" explore the complexities of human emotions and relationships. In the episode, William's desire to reconcile with his estranged wife reflects the theme of seeking redemption and healing broken bonds. Similarly, "The Wizard of Oz" delves into the multifaceted nature of emotional connections, as Dorothy longs to return to her family in Kansas and her companions yearn for their heart's desires.Additionally, the concept of trust and the reliability of strangers come into play in both narratives. In "Asterisk," Apollo is initially suspicious of William when he reveals knowledge of Emma's whereabouts. The uncertainty surrounding William's motives forces Apollo to question whether he should trust him or not. This mirrors Dorothy's interactions with the various characters she encounters on her journey to the Emerald City. She learns that not all strangers can be trusted and that appearances can be deceiving, a valuable lesson echoed in Apollo's dilemma.As the episode progresses, Apollo finds himself grappling with a decision regarding his involvement with William's quest. Likewise, Dorothy faces crucial choices throughout her journey in "The Wizard of Oz." Both protagonists are confronted with opportunities to aid others while pursuing their own objectives. Their decisions reflect their growth as characters and demonstrate their commitment to helping those in need.In conclusion, "Asterisk," an episode of The Changeling, and "The Wizard of Oz" by L. Frank Baum share intriguing parallels. Both narratives explore themes of transformation, the presence of witches, the notions of trust and reliability, and the complexities of human emotions and relationships. By diving deeper into these common threads, we uncover a delightful connection that highlights the timeless and universal themes present in both works of fiction.