Alice's Adventures in Wonderland - Chapter 5

Summary

Stories Podcast: A Bedtime Show for Kids of All Ages
Episode: Alice's Adventures in Wonderland - Chapter 5
Release Date: January 22, 2025
Host: Amanda Weldon
Produced by: Starglow Media / Wondery

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Chapter 5 Summary

In this captivating episode of Stories Podcast, Amanda Weldon brings to life Chapter 5 of "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" by Lewis Carroll. This chapter delves into Alice's perplexing encounter with the enigmatic Caterpillar, exploring themes of identity, change, and self-discovery.

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1. Alice's Encounter with the Caterpillar

As Alice continues her journey in Wonderland, she finds herself intrigued by a peculiar mushroom growing nearby. It is amidst this setting that she meets the Caterpillar, a contemplative and somewhat aloof creature who becomes her unlikely guide.

[02:49] Caterpillar: "Who are you?"
[03:01] Alice: "I, I hardly know, sir. Just at present. At least I know who I was when I got up this morning, but I think I must have been changed several times since then."

The Caterpillar's blunt questioning immediately sets the tone for a deep and somewhat uncomfortable conversation about Alice's ever-changing identity.

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2. Discussion on Identity and Change

The dialogue between Alice and the Caterpillar centers around the concept of self and the impact of constant change. Alice expresses her confusion over her fluctuating size, which symbolizes the broader theme of personal growth and transformation.

[04:02] Caterpillar: "Not a bit."
[07:35] Alice: "Not quite right, I'm afraid,"
[08:31] Alice: "Three inches is such a wretched height to be. It is a very good height indeed,"
[11:22] Alice: "And now which is which?"

Through these interactions, listeners witness Alice grappling with her sense of self amidst the unpredictable changes imposed by Wonderland.

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3. The Mushroom's Magic

Central to this chapter is the mysterious mushroom that possesses the power to alter Alice's size. The Caterpillar elucidates its secrets, explaining that one side of the mushroom makes one grow taller, while the other side causes shrinking.

[09:31] Alice: "One side of what? The other side of what?"
[09:35] Caterpillar: "The mushroom,"

Alice's experimentation with the mushroom leads to a series of rapid size changes, highlighting her struggle to adapt to the whimsical laws of Wonderland.

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4. Encounter with the Pigeon

In a surprising twist, Alice's attempt to navigate her changing size brings her face-to-face with a Pigeon. This interaction adds a layer of absurdity and humor, as the Pigeon mistakenly accuses Alice of being a serpent, further complicating her already tumultuous experience.

[13:13] Pigeon: "Serpent."
[13:15] Alice: "Screamed the pigeon. I'm not a serpent,"
[14:21] Pigeon: "And just as I'd taken the highest tree in the wood..."

The Pigeon's frantic behavior and nonsensical accusations serve as a satirical take on misunderstandings and miscommunication.

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5. Alice’s Return to Normal Size

After the bewildering encounter with the Pigeon, Alice focuses on regaining her original size. She meticulously consumes pieces of the mushroom, successfully stabilizing her stature. This moment signifies a return to a semblance of normalcy after the chaos of constant change.

[16:43] Alice: "Come, there's half my plan done now. How puzzling all these changes are. I'm never sure what I'm going to be from one minute to another."

Her determination to reach the beautiful garden symbolizes her quest for stability and order in the unpredictable world of Wonderland.

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Key Insights and Themes

• Identity and Self-Discovery: Alice's conversations highlight the fluid nature of identity, especially during times of change.

• Adaptation to Change: The ability to adapt is crucial, as evidenced by Alice's continuous adjustments to her size.

• Miscommunication: The interaction with the Pigeon underscores the challenges of understanding and being understood in a chaotic environment.

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Notable Quotes

• Caterpillar on Change:

  [03:20] Alice: "I can't explain myself, I'm afraid, sir, because I'm not myself, you see."

• On Struggle with Size:

  [08:31] Alice: "Three inches is such a wretched height to be."

• Pigeon's Accusation:

  [14:57] Pigeon: "No, no, you're a serpent, and there's no use denying it."

• Alice's Determination:

  [16:43] Alice: "I'm never sure what I'm going to be from one minute to another. However, I've got back to my right size."

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Conclusion

This episode of Stories Podcast masterfully narrates Chapter 5 of "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," offering young listeners an engaging exploration of complex themes through Alice's adventures. Amanda Weldon's compelling storytelling ensures that both children and parents find enjoyment and meaningful lessons in Alice's whimsical journey.

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For more enchanting stories and adventures, subscribe to Stories Podcast on your favorite podcast platform.

Transcript

[Dan]

Hello.

[Amanda Weldon]

Welcome to Stories Podcast. I'm your host, Amanda Weldon. Today's story is a chapter from Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, a classic novel written for you by Lewis Carroll.

[Narrator]

We have Stories Podcast merch, [e-mail] shop.

[Alice]

We're also on Cameo for all of.

[Narrator]

Your personalized video message needs. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram oriespodcast. If you send us a drawing of your favorite scene or character, we'll share.

[Dan]

It on our feed.

[Narrator]

Now, here's a word from our sponsors. This episode of Stories Podcast is brought.

[Amanda Weldon]

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[Dan]

Join in on the fun every Thursday.

[Amanda Weldon]

To find out, follow mysteries about true Histories on Apple Podcasts or wherever you find your podcasts.

[Dan]

Thanks. Enjoy the episode.

[Alice]

Advice from a Caterpillar the Caterpillar and Alice looked at each other for some time in silence. At last, the caterpillar took the hookah out of its mouth and and addressed her in a languid, sleepy voice.

[Caterpillar]

Who are you? Said the caterpillar.

[Alice]

This was not an encouraging opening for a conversation. Alice replied rather shyly.

I, I hardly know, sir. Just at present. At least I know who I was when I got up this morning, but I think I must have been changed several times since then.

[Caterpillar]

What do you mean by that?

Said the caterpillar sternly.

Explain yourself.

[Alice]

I can't explain myself, I'm afraid, sir, said Alice, because I'm not myself, you see.

[Caterpillar]

I don't see, said the caterpillar.

[Alice]

Im afraid I can't put it more.

Clearly, alice replied very politely, for I.

Can'T understand it myself to begin with, and being so many different sizes in a day is very confusing.

[Caterpillar]

It isn't, said the caterpillar.

[Alice]

Well, perhaps you haven't found it so yet, said Alice. But when you have to turn into a chrysalis you will some day, you know, and then after that into a butterfly. I should think you'll feel it a little odd, won't you?

[Caterpillar]

Not a bit, said the caterpillar.

[Alice]

Well, perhaps your feelings may be different, said Alice. All I know is it would feel very odd to me.

[Caterpillar]

You? Said the caterpillar contemptuously.

Who are you?

[Alice]

Which brought them back again to the beginning of the conversation.

[Caterpillar]

Alice felt a little irritated at the.

[Alice]

Caterpillar'S making such very short remarks, and she drew herself up and said very.

Gravely, I think you ought to tell me who you are first.

[Caterpillar]

Why? Said the caterpillar.

[Alice]

Here was another puzzling question, and as Alice could not think of any good reason, and the caterpillar seemed to be in a very unpleasant state of mind, she turned away.

[Caterpillar]

Come back, the caterpillar called after her.

I've something important to say.

[Alice]

This sounded promising. Certainly. Alice turned and came back again.

[Caterpillar]

Keep your temper, said the caterpillar.

[Alice]

Is that all?

Said Alice, swallowing down her anger as.

[Caterpillar]

Well as she could. No, said the caterpillar.

[Alice]

Alice thought she might as well wait, as she had nothing else to do, and perhaps after all, it might tell her something worth hearing. For some minutes it puffed away without speaking, but at last it unfolded its arms, took the hookah out of its.

[Caterpillar]

Mouth again, and said, so you think.

You'Re changed, do you?

[Alice]

I'm afraid I am, sir, said Alice. I can't remember things as I used to, and I don't keep the same size for 10 minutes together.

[Caterpillar]

Can't remember what things?

Said the caterpillar.

[Alice]

Well, I've tried to say how doth.

[Amanda Weldon]

The little busy bee, but it all.

[Alice]

Came different, Alice replied in a very melancholy voice.

Repeat.

[Caterpillar]

You are old Father William, said the caterpillar.

[Alice]

Alice folded her hands and began.

You are old Father William, the young man said, and your hair has become very white, and yet you incessantly stand on your head, do you think, at your age? It is right? In my youth, Father William replied to his son, I feared it might injure the brain, but now I am perfectly sure I have none. Why, I do it again and again. You are old, said the youth, as.

I mentioned before, and have grown most.

Uncommonly fat, yet you turned a black somersault in at the door. Pray, what is the reason of that? In my youth, said the sage as he shook his grey locks, I kept all my limbs very supple by the.

Use of this ointment. One shilling a box.

Allow me to sell you a couple. You are old, said the youth, and your jaws are too weak for anything tougher than suet.

Yet you finished the goose with the bones and the beak.

Pray, how did you manage to do it?

In my youth, said his father, I.

Took to the law and argued each case with my wife, and the muscular.

Strength which it gave to my jaw.

Has lasted the rest of my life. You are old, said the youth. One would hardly suppose that your eye was as steady as ever, yet you balanced an eel on the end of your nose. What made you so awfully clever?

I have answered three questions, and that.

Is enough, said his father. Don't give yourself airs.

Do you think I can listen all.

Day to such stuff? Be off, or I'll kick you downstairs.

[Caterpillar]

That is not said.

Right, said the caterpillar.

[Alice]

Not quite right, I'm afraid, said Alice timidly. Some of the words have got altered.

[Caterpillar]

It is wrong from beginning to end.

[Alice]

Said the caterpillar decidedly, and there was silence for some minutes. The caterpillar was the first to speak.

What size do you want to be?

It asked. Oh, I'm not particular as to size, Alice hastily replied.

Only one doesn't like changing so often, you know.

[Caterpillar]

I don't know, said the caterpillar.

[Alice]

Alice said nothing. She had never been so much contradicted in all her life before, and she felt that she was losing her temper.

Are you content now?

[Caterpillar]

Said the caterpillar.

[Alice]

Well, I should like to be a little larger, sir, if you wouldn't mind, said Alice.

Three inches is such a wretched height to be. It is a very good height indeed, said the caterpillar angrily, rearing itself upright as it spoke. It was exactly three inches high.

But I'm not used to it, pleaded.

Poor Alice in a piteous tone, and she thought to herself, I wish the creatures wouldn't be so easily offended. You'll get used to it in time, said the caterpillar. And it put the hookah into its mouth and began smoking again. This time Alice waited patiently until it chose to speak again. In a minute or two, the caterpillar took the hookah out of its mouth.

And yawned once or twice and shook itself.

Then it got down off the mushroom and crawled away into the grass, merely remarking as it went, one side will.

[Caterpillar]

Make you grow taller, and the other side will make you grow shorter.

[Alice]

One side of what? The other side of what?

Thought Alice to herself. Of the mushroom, said the caterpillar, just as if she had asked it aloud, and in another moment it was out of sight. Now for a quick ad break.

[Narrator]

We'll be back with the rest of the story after this. If you'd like Stories Podcast and other.

[Alice]

Favorite Kid podcasts ad free subscribe to.

[Amanda Weldon]

Wondery Kids on Apple Podcasts have you got kids who can't break away from their screens at bedtime? This is for you. Koala Moon is a podcast of original bedtime stories and sleep meditations for kids.

[Alice]

Hosted by Abbey Ofer.

[Amanda Weldon]

All content is delivered in friendly, soft tones, getting slower as the episode goes on to encourage sleep. There are over 450 stories and meditations to choose from, with three episodes added every single week. Koala Moon has helped improve over 25 million bedtimes since its launch in late 2021 and now welcomes over 1 million listeners a month. It even won a British podcast award in 2024. Find out what the fuss is about. Subscribe to Koala Moon wherever you listen to podcasts and start listening for free tonight. Just search Koala Moon on your favorite podcast app.

[Dan]

Thanks. And now back to the story.

[Alice]

Alice remained looking thoughtfully at the mushroom for a minute, trying to make out which were the two sides of it, and as it was perfectly round, she found this a very difficult question. However, at last she stretched her arms round it as far as they would go and and broke off a bit of the edge with each hand.

And now which is which?

She said to herself, and nibbled a little of the right hand bit to try the effect. The next moment she felt a violent blow underneath her chin. It had struck her foot. She was a good deal frightened by this very sudden change, but she felt that there was no time to be lost, as she was shrinking rapidly, so she set to work at once to eat some of the other bits. Her chin was pressed so closely against her foot that there was hardly room to open her mouth, but she did it at last and managed to swallow a morsel of the left hand bit. Come, my head's free at last, said Alice in a tone of delight, which changed into alarm in another moment when she found that her shoulders were nowhere to be found. All she could see when she looked down was an immense length of neck which seemed to rise like a stalk out of a sea of green leaves that lay far below her.

What can all that green stuff be? Said Alice, and where have my shoulders got to? And oh, my poor hands, how is.

[Dan]

It I can't see you?

[Alice]

She was moving them about as she.

Spoke, but no result seemed to follow.

Except a little shaking among the distant green leaves. As there seemed to be no chance of getting her hands up to her head, she tried to get her head down to them and was delighted to find that her neck would bend about easily in any direction like a serpent. She had just succeeded in curving it down into a graceful zigzag, and was going to dive in among the leaves, which she found to be nothing but the tops of the trees under which she had been wandering, when a sharp hiss made her draw back in a hurry. A large pigeon had flown into her face and was beating her violently with its wings.

[Pigeon]

Serpent.

[Alice]

Screamed the pigeon. I'm not a serpent, said Alice indignantly.

Let me alone.

[Pigeon]

Serpent, I say again, repeated the pigeon.

[Alice]

But in a more subdued tone, and added with a kind of sob, I've.

[Pigeon]

Tried every way, but nothing seems to suit them.

[Alice]

I haven't the least idea what you're.

Talking about, said Alice.

[Pigeon]

I've tried the roots of trees, and I've tried banks, and I've tried hedges.

[Alice]

The pigeon went on without attending to.

[Pigeon]

Her, but those serpents, there's no pleasing'em.

[Alice]

Alice was more and more puzzled, but she thought there was no use in saying anything more till the pigeon had finished.

[Pigeon]

As if it wasn't enough trouble hatching the eggs, said the pigeon, but I must be on the lookout for serpents night and day. Why, I haven't had a wink of sleep these three weeks.

[Alice]

I'm very sorry you've been annoyed, said.

Alice, who was beginning to see its meaning.

[Pigeon]

And just as I'd taken the highest.

[Alice]

Tree in the wood, continued the pigeon, raising its voice to a shriek.

[Pigeon]

And just as I was thinking I should be free of them at last, they must needs come wriggling down from the sky. O sir serpent.

[Alice]

But I'm not a serpent, I tell you, said Alice.

I'm a. I'm a.

[Pigeon]

Well, what are you?

[Alice]

Said the pigeon.

[Pigeon]

I can see you're trying to invent something.

[Alice]

I. I'm a little girl, said Alice.

Rather doubtfully as she remembered the number of changes she had gone through that day.

[Pigeon]

A likely story indeed, said the pigeon.

[Alice]

In a tone of the deepest contempt.

[Pigeon]

I've seen a good many little girls in my time, but never one with such a neck as that. No, no, you're a serpent, and there's no use denying it. I suppose you'll be telling me next that you never tasted an egg.

[Alice]

But I have tasted eggs, certainly, said.

Alice, who was a very truthful child.

But little girls eat eggs quite as much as serpents do, you know.

[Pigeon]

I don't believe it, said the pigeon. But if they do, why, then they're kind of a serpent. That's all I can say.

[Alice]

This was such a new idea to Alice that she was quite silent for a minute or two, which gave the pigeon the opportunity of adding, you're looking for eggs.

[Pigeon]

I know that well enough.

[Alice]

And what does it matter to me.

[Pigeon]

Whether you're a little girl or a serpent?

[Alice]

It matters a good deal to me.

Said Alice hastily, but I'm not looking for eggs, as it happens, and if I was, I shouldn't want yours. I don't like them raw.

[Pigeon]

Well, be off then, said the pigeon.

[Alice]

In a sulky tone as it settled down again into its nest. Alice crouched down among the trees as well as she could, for her neck kept getting entangled among the branches, and every now and then she had to stop and untwist it. After a while she remembered that she still held the pieces of mushroom in her hands, and she set to work very carefully, nibbling first at one and then at the other, and growing sometimes taller and sometimes shorter, until she had succeeded in bringing herself down to her usual height. It was so long since she had been anything near the right size that it felt quite strange at first. But she got used to it in a few minutes and began talking to herself as usual.

Come, there's half my plan done now. How puzzling all these changes are. I'm never sure what I'm going to be from one minute to another. However, I've got back to my right size. The next thing is to get into that beautiful garden. How is that to be done, I wonder?

As she said this, she came suddenly upon an open place with. With a little house in it about 4ft high.

Whoever lives there, thought Alice, it'll never do to come upon them this size. Why, I should frighten them out of their wits.

[Narrator]

So she began nibbling at the right.

[Alice]

Hand, bit again, and did not venture to go near the house till she had brought herself down to 9 inches high.

[Amanda Weldon]

Today's story was Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, a classic novel written for you by Lewis Carroll.

[Alice]

It was edited and produced for you.

[Amanda Weldon]

By Andrew Martin and performed for you by me, Amanda Weldon.

[Narrator]

If you would like to support Stories podcast, you can leave us a five star review on itunes. Check out all of our merch [e-mail] Shop Commission a special video on Cameo, follow us on Instagram storiespodcast, or simply tell your friends about us.

[Dan]

In case you missed it, Dan and I have a new show on Stories rpg. We play games just like Starsworn with all your Max Goodname friends and Gigacity Guardians featuring the brilliant Firefly. Click the link in the episode description or go to patreon.com storiesrpg to get ad free episodes.

[Alice]

Play along games and coloring books.

[Dan]

We've already got a bunch of episodes over there, so check them out now.

[Amanda Weldon]

Thanks for listening.