Choose two of the “other worlds” described in the unit. Compare and contrast the ways these other worlds impacted the real world for the characters. in "A Sound of Thunder" and the daydreams of Walter Mitty in "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty."
In "A Sound of Thunder," one of the other worlds described is the prehistoric era, which is visited by characters through time travel. This world impacts the real world for the characters in a significant way as their actions have unforeseen consequences. When Eckels, the main character, steps off the path and kills a butterfly, his seemingly minor act changes the course of history. Upon returning to their present world, the characters find that it has been dramatically altered with the emergence of new political leaders, different languages, and even subtle physical changes. This alteration emphasizes the delicate balance of nature and highlights the potential repercussions of one small action on a larger scale.
On the other hand, in "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty," Walter's daydreams can be seen as his own imaginary other worlds. These daydreams provide a means of escapism for Walter, allowing him to mentally escape the banality of his real world. Unlike in "A Sound of Thunder," Walter's daydreams do not have direct consequences on the real world. Instead, they serve as a coping mechanism to help him bear the pressures and monotony of his everyday life. Walter's daydreams enable him to feel empowered, adventurous, and in control, providing him with an outlet for his desires and aspirations.
The impacts of these other worlds on the characters differ significantly. In "A Sound of Thunder," the characters experience the immediate and tangible effects of altering the past, realizing the fragility of time and the consequences of their actions. In contrast, Walter's daydreams in "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" impact his inner world by providing him with a temporary escape and sense of fulfillment. While the characters in "A Sound of Thunder" face external consequences, Walter's daydreams impact his psychological well-being, giving him a form of solace and a means to cope with his reality.
Overall, both "A Sound of Thunder" and "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" depict other worlds that impact the real world for the characters but in distinct ways. The former exposes the magnitude of altering the past, while the latter offers a form of mental refuge from mundane existence.