Simple Words with Big Impact by Mariana

Simple Words with Big Impact by Mariana - October 2023 Scholarship Essay

“Always remember you matter, you’re important and you are loved, and you bring to this world things no one else can.” Charlie Mackesy brought his illustrated book filled with wonder and kindness in the year 2019. Though this story has a mere 128 page count, each flick of a paper belongs to the story called, “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse”.
Now, why would one choose to write their thoughts on a short children’s book? How can this tale about a boy and three animals bring so much happiness and even times of tears? Honestly, I don’t think I know. While others would possibly find books of tragedies and harsh realities, this story simply follows four vastly different characters and their yearning for something called “home”.
I often ponder on that word: home. I think it’s something we all hunger for. We have moments where we can feel ever so alone in the busiest of places. All our lives, we are searching for the sense of belonging. Sometimes, when we venture too deep, we can find ourselves even more lost than before. We have followed the wrong path, following the wrong thing. Sometimes we need to hear those small simple words, that make can make a difference if we allow it to.
Again, “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse” is s story that follows said characters and their growth of friendship as they explore the world around them. Yes, that’s literally it. But, surprisingly, with every word I read, I was profoundly moved. Most, if not all, conversations between the characters review truths of the universe and question the meaning of life. Charlie Mackesy, the author and illustrator, explained “All four characters represent different parts of the same person…the inquisitive boy, the mole who’s enthusiastic but a bit greedy, the fox who’s been hurt so is withdrawn from life, slow to trust but wants to be part of things, and the horse who’s the wisest bit, the deepest part of you, the soul.”
At the time when I read this, I had gone through my share of past and current trials. When the trouble of self-worth becomes impossible to find, there are small moments where the smallest of words are spoken and brought me back onto my two feet. This book mainly follows the boy, who learns lessons of value from his new acquaintances. Though storms may blow their terrible winds, they will not last forever. The boy learns about the importance of being true to oneself, as well as seeing the good in a world of faults.
I think something that we as people have in common is our lack of hopeful visions. We are drawn to comparison – which has been described as “the thief of joy”. The book observes the power of gratitude, which can convert to real understanding of the lives with live. When we focus on what we have rather than what we don’t have, this can offer peace of mind and even motivation for the future.
In the climax of “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse”, is when our protagonists finally find the village, where the boy belongs. Right? This is what he’s been looking for. This was the destination he had traveled far and wide to get to. And yet, the boy chooses to stay with his companions. Because as it is written, “Home isn’t always a place, is it?”
Something that I have adored with this book, is its sense of childlike wonder and meekness. We often view the word “meek” as “weak”; but that isn’t the case. When one is meek, it is controlled strength. When one shows mercy onto another, it is undeserved compassion. There are simple sentences within each page, sometimes too simple. But that’s what I love about this book most. It challenges those to retain truth through little words, regaining our sense of childhood and pure kindness. These days it can be difficult to be kind. These days it can be difficult to be submissive. “What’s the bravest thing you’ve ever said?” asked the boy. “Help”, said the horse.
This story, as small as it is, made an impact on me that I never thought a book could. Left and right, a feeling of warmth spread through my veins. In many cases I smiled. As I continue to search for my own purpose, I strive to fall back on the truths of humanity. You may look at this book and ask, “How could such a small children’s book make such an impact on a young adult?” I hope you’ll open the book and look for yourself; for simple things too can hold great power.