In Ray Bradbury's "The Veldt," the father's feelings toward technology evolve from initial fascination and trust to deep concern and fear. At the beginning of the story, George Hadley is somewhat enamored with the high-tech nursery that simulates any environment the children desire. He sees it as a source of entertainment, convenience, and modernity, reflecting the optimistic view of technology prevalent in the mid-20th century. He believes that technology can enhance their lives and provide a means for his children to play and explore.
However, as the story progresses, George's perspective shifts significantly. His concerns become evident when he observes his children’s obsession with the African veldt simulation, which features lions feeding on carcasses. George begins to feel that the nursery is more than just a playroom; it has become a tool for his children's discontent and a source of emotional distance in the family. He expresses his worries when he says, “They live for the nursery,” indicating that he believes his children are losing touch with reality and becoming overly reliant on technology.
The turning point in George's feelings is marked by his recognition of the dangers posed by the nursery and his growing sense of powerlessness. For instance, he feels threatened when he realizes that Lydia, his wife, is similarly concerned and alarmed by the children's behavior and the implications of their attachment to the technology. Lydia’s statement, “You’ve got to find the African veldt,” signifies the loss of control he faces as a parent, suggesting that the technology is dominating their lives rather than serving as a helpful aid.
Ultimately, George's concerns reach a climax when he discovers the sinister reality behind the nursery's simulations. The realization that his children have used the technology to manifest their violent thoughts culminates in his urgent plea: “I don’t want to go in the nursery,” highlighting not only his fear of the technology itself but of what it has done to his children. His feelings shift from wonder to horror as he comprehends the consequences of this reliance on technology and how it has shaped his family's dynamics.
In conclusion, the father's journey in "The Veldt" illustrates a cautionary tale about technology's potential to disrupt familial relationships and alter human behavior. His initial comfort and trust in technology transform into a profound anxiety about its impact on his children and their capacity for genuine connection.
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