In the novel “The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett, Colin Craven undergoes a remarkable transformation, from a sickly and spoiled child to a healthy, active, and engaged young boy. This transformation is a significant development in the novel, as it represents the overcoming of physical and emotional challenges, as well as the discovery of self-reliance and independence.
Mr. Craven, Colin's father, is introduced in the novel as a remote and unsympathetic figure, who is consumed by grief over the death of his wife. He ignores his son, and instead devotes himself to his travels and business affairs. As a result, Colin has grown up largely isolated and neglected, and often indulges in self-pity and tantrums.
However, as Colin's transformation progresses, Mr. Craven begins to take notice of his son's changes. He is surprised and pleased to see Colin taking an interest in the world around him, and becoming more active and independent. For example, when Mr. Craven returns from his travels, he is impressed by Colin's ability to walk and run, and by his newfound interest in gardening. He listens with interest to Colin's descriptions of the garden, and offers to provide him with whatever he needs.
Mr. Craven's positive reaction to Colin's transformation is not entirely unexpected. Throughout the novel, he is shown to be a complex and multi-layered character, who is capable of both cruelty and tenderness. While he initially seems indifferent to Colin's welfare, it is gradually revealed that he is haunted by guilt over the death of his wife, and that he has been unable to connect with his son as a result. When he finally realizes the extent of Colin's misery, he is genuinely moved by his son's suffering, and is willing to make changes in his own life in order to help him.
Moreover, Mr. Craven's reaction to Colin's transformation is not simply a matter of paternal love and concern. It also reflects his own growth and development as a character. Throughout the novel, he is shown to be a rigid and inflexible individual, who is unable to cope with change or uncertainty. However, as he becomes more involved in Colin's transformation, he learns to be more open-minded and accepting, and to embrace the unpredictable and the unfamiliar.
In conclusion, Mr. Craven's reaction to Colin's transformation is complex and multi-layered, reflecting not only his love for his son, but also his own personal growth and development. While it is difficult to predict exactly how he will respond to Colin's changes, it is likely that he will be surprised and pleased, and that he will continue to be a strong source of support and encouragement for his son as he continues to grow and develop.