-Ashby's Abrazo Analysis-

In the abrazo entitled "Celebration of Fantasy," Eduardo Galeano shows us the beautiful and powerful effect that fantasy can have on people’s lives.  After reading this short story, I couldn’t help but smile.  I’m sure Galeano got a good laugh from the whole situation as well.  I think that the humor in the story really helps convey the pro-fantasy message.  It gives the impression that the worst that can come from momentarily suspending reality and becoming immersed in fantasy is a smile, maybe even a laugh.  If all the world could embrace fantasy as easily as Galeano does, perhaps the world would be a better place.  After all, fantasy does offer a temporary alternative to reality, as well as a person’s constant mental review of everyday stresses.  I mean, if you’re not thinking about your problems, you won’t constantly be worrying about them and create unhealthy stress for yourself.  It also offers a world where your mind is free to roam and anything you can dream up is possible.  Take the little boy in the story for instance.  Even though he must deal with third-rate living conditions and living under an oppressive government every day, he had a blast for the short time that Galeano entertained him with his drawings.  I guess in way, fantasy can be somewhat therapeutic.  I mean, its been proven that laughing is actually good for you.  Findings show that it increases respiratory function and stimulates blood flow, not to mention the good mood it can put you and the others around you in. 

          Without fantasy, none of mankind’s major technological and social advances would have come about.  Society as we know it would be much different had our fore fathers not been able to fantasize about a better future and then pursue their dreams.  I don’t know about you, but personally I think I would prefer my dorm room, equipped with my stereo and computer, to a damp, dark cave somewhere in a hill-side.  When you look at it like this, fantasy begins to look like a human necessity rather than superfluous daydreaming. 

          Okay, so let’s review.  Fantasy can lead to laughter, good health (both mental and physical), instilling a sense of joy in others, and the advancement of an entire species.  Ya just gots ta love fantasy!  In light of all the hatred and negativity that exists in the world today, I think Galeano would agree that the world could use a good fantasy-therapy session every once in a while. 

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