Unveiling the Symbolism of the Elephant inside a Boa Constrictor in “The Little Prince

Unlocking the Mysteries of the Deserted Lands

Welcome to another exploration of the enchanting world of “The Little Prince.” In this journey, we turn our gaze towards two fascinating symbols from Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s beloved tale: the elephant swallowed by a boa constrictor and the mountainous desert landscape where it all begins.

The Elephant Inside the Boa Constrictor

One of the most iconic moments in Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s The Little Prince is the sketch of an elephant inside a boa constrictor.

At first glance, adults see a hat—a misunderstanding that has become famous as the “hat from The Little Prince.” But children immediately recognize the truth: it’s an elephant inside a boa constrictor.

This simple drawing perfectly captures the story’s central theme: the difference between how adults and children perceive the world.

Why the Elephant and the Boa Matter

When the narrator shows his childhood drawing to adults, none of them understand. To adults, it’s just a hat. To children, it’s an elephant inside the boa.

This moment reminds us to look beyond appearances, to imagine, and to keep the childlike wonder alive. The image of the Little Prince’s elephant continues to inspire curiosity, creativity, and imagination.

The Deserted Lands as the Backdrop for Imagination

The desert serves as the setting for this drawing, as it is where the narrator’s plane crashes and where he meets the Little Prince. The vast expanse of the desert symbolizes the blank canvas of the imagination, where anything is possible.

The desert also symbolizes the harsh realities and emptiness of adulthood, where individuals become consumed by mundane concerns and lose touch with their inner child. Yet, within this barren landscape, seeds of wonder and possibility are planted, waiting to be nurtured and cultivated.

It all started at Lake Atitlán…

Did you know that it is said that Antoine de Saint-Exupéry crashed his plane right here at Lake Atitlán? During his recovery he drew inspiration from the lake and its surroundings to write the now world-famous story about the little prince.

As you look across the lake, you may notice the weirdly shaped mountain at the other side. Doesn’t it look like an elephant inside a boa constrictor?

True or not, the story has become part of the lake’s magic. Visitors now explore the legend and look for the Little Prince’s elephant in the surrounding mountains.

Journal Prompt

Reflect on a recent challenge or problem you faced. How did you initially approach it? Now, imagine you’re looking at the same situation through the eyes of a child—full of curiosity, wonder, and creativity. How might your perspective change? What new solutions or possibilities do you see?

Experience The Little Prince at Eagle’s Nest

At Eagle’s Nest Atitlán, the story of The Little Prince comes alive. QR codes throughout the Nest guide you through the chapters: the fox, the rose, the desert, and beyond.

Whether you found us online or visited in person, remember: there’s always more beneath the surface. Look closely, and you may find your own Little Prince elephant.

So take your time, wander through the nest, and let the story of “The Little Prince” unfold before you. May you find inspiration, insight, and a renewed sense of wonder in every discovery.

Wanna know the full story? Read it here!