Dory Fantasmagory

This story revolves around the relationship between Dory and her two older siblings. The power dynamics in the siblings’ relationships primarily reflect their ages. Children often see older kids as role models and want to emulate them. Older kids in turn construct games that allow younger kids to try out more advanced and complex forms of play. Violet is the oldest and retains the most power over her younger siblings. Luke looks up to her and longs to be included, allowing Violet to boss him around and assign him roles in her imaginary games. Luke also tends to echo what Violet says, especially when it comes to diminishing Dory. Because Violet is so dismissive, Luke must be dismissive to maintain his privileged position in Violet’s eyes. Dory, desperate to be included, even turns around and dismisses her imaginary friend Mary when she has (or thinks she has) an opportunity to play with Violet. The dynamic reflects a hierarchy with Violet at the top and Mary at the bottom, with each kid constantly trying to maintain their position. Mary, Dory’s imaginary friend, was in part invented so that Dory has dominance over another and can maintain a