Discover How ‘Stranger Things’ Links to ‘A Wrinkle in Time’
Throughout its five-season run, the popular series Stranger Things has drawn inspiration from various sources, including fantasy literature. One of the notable connections this season makes is with Madeleine L’Engle’s acclaimed novel A Wrinkle in Time. This link serves as a new lens for the protagonists as they navigate their extraordinary adventures in Hawkins.
Connections Between Stranger Things and A Wrinkle in Time
A Wrinkle in Time was published in 1962 and follows the journey of Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O’Keefe. The trio travels through dimensions in search of Meg’s missing father. The themes of this beloved young adult novel resonate with the ongoing adventures depicted in Stranger Things, particularly given the second season’s exploration of other dimensions.
Holly Wheeler’s Fascination with A Wrinkle in Time
In Season 5 of Stranger Things, characters Mike and Nancy Wheeler’s sister, Holly, establishes a connection with A Wrinkle in Time. Her affection for the book helps her navigate the reality-bending situations surrounding her.
Character Dynamics: Mr. Whatsit and Vecna
Holly’s imaginary friend in the series, Mr. Whatsit, draws inspiration from Mrs. Whatsit, a character from L’Engle’s novel. While Mrs. Whatsit is depicted as a benevolent being with significant power, Mr. Whatsit is revealed to be Vecna, an antagonist from the show.
- Mrs. Whatsit: A kind, mystical figure in A Wrinkle in Time.
- Mr. Whatsit: A seemingly friendly character masking his true identity as Vecna.
Both characters reside in mysterious homes. While Mrs. Whatsit uses a tesseract to transport children, Vecna employs sinister methods, using Demogorgons and manipulating memories.
The Link to Camazotz
In a pivotal moment, Holly encounters Max, who educates her on the nature of Vecna’s memory world—an eerie prison reminiscent of Camazotz. This dark planet from A Wrinkle in Time represents a controlled, orderly society under the influence of a telepathic entity called IT.
- Camazotz: The climactic setting in A Wrinkle in Time, characterized by its sinister perfection.
- IT: A powerful entity controlling the inhabitants, similar to Vecna’s hive mind in the Upside Down.
As Holly and Max unite to confront their challenges, references to Camazotz suggest a deeper narrative connection, culminating in the upcoming episode titled “Escape From Camazotz.”
What’s Next for Stranger Things
Volume 1 of Stranger Things Season 5 is currently available on Netflix. Volume 2 will premiere on December 25, 2023, followed by the series finale on December 31, 2023, both at 8 p.m. ET. Viewers can anticipate more exciting connections to A Wrinkle in Time as the story progresses.
