Someplace to Be Flying - Classic Text | Alexandria
Someplace to Be Flying, a contemporary fantasy novel by Charles de Lint, published in 1998, presents a world where myth and reality intertwine within the familiar landscape of Newford, a fictional North American city. More than just a story of urban fantasy, it is an exploration of folklore, identity, and the power of belief, subtly challenging the boundaries between the mundane and the magical. While often categorized simply as urban fantasy, this interpretation overlooks the novel's deeper engagement with Indigenous traditions and the ways in which ancient stories can reshape contemporary lives.
De Lint's engagement with mythology found fertile ground in the late 20th century, a period marked by a resurgence of interest in folklore and a burgeoning fantasy literature scene. Influenced by writers like Terri Windling and Emma Bull, de Lint contributed to forging a new path for fantasy, away from traditional epic narratives toward more intimate, character-driven stories rooted in contemporary settings. Someplace to Be Flying is significant for its sophisticated weaving of Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) mythology, specifically the figure of Nanabush, into the lives of its modern protagonists, two homeless individuals named Sylvie and Zinnie.
The novel cleverly intertwines the narratives of Sylvie and Zinnie, whose lives are transformed when they discover they are more than human – Sylvie, who eventually discovers she is related to a swan maiden, and Zinnie who finds out he is Nanabush. This connection elevates their struggles into something mythic, imbuing their experiences with deeper meaning. The novel has been noted not only for its intricate plot, but also for its sensitive treatment of homelessness and mental health, using fantasy elements to illuminate the very real struggles faced by marginalized communities. Some argue that the novel is a masterful example of cultural appropriation and the respectful integration of Indigenous elements within the urban fantasy framework.
Considered a cornerstone of de Lint's Newford series, Someplace to Be Flying continues to inspire readers with its lyrical prose, compelling characters, and thoughtful exploration of mythology. Its relevance endures into the 21st century, prompting discussions about the nature of identity, storytelling, and our connection to the past, leaving readers to ponder: How do the stories we inherit shape who we become, and what magic might lie hidden just beneath the surface of our everyday lives?