Aslan said Lucy you're bigger. That is because you are older, little one answered he. Not because you are? I am not. But every year you grow, you will find me bigger.
This quote from C. S. Lewis's 'Prince Caspian' beautifully captures the relationship between growth, perception, and understanding. It illustrates how aging and experience can alter our perception of others and ourselves. As children, we often see the world in a simple, immediate way; our understanding of size, importance, and relationship is direct. However, as we grow older, our awareness deepens, and we realize that what appears bigger or more important may be a reflection of our personal development rather than an alteration in reality. The conversation between Lucy and Aslan highlights that growth might increase our awareness of others' significance and presence, not necessarily in a literal sense, but symbolically. As we mature, we recognize that someone or something might appear 'bigger' because of our own expanding understanding and experience. It also suggests that true understanding requires a recognition of internal change—how our perspective shifts with age, wisdom, and maturity. The metaphor underscores the importance of appreciating growth, not just physically but emotionally and spiritually, which can make the 'bigger' seem more meaningful. It encourages readers to view their personal growth and the growth of others as intertwined processes, emphasizing humility and appreciation of life's evolving perspective. Lewis masterfully uses this dialogue to remind us that perception is subjective and that real growth lies in our capacity to see beyond appearances to deeper truths.