In "Avenue of Mysteries" by John Irving, the setting of the Circus of The Wonder reveals a deliberate choice made by Ignacio, the lion tamer. He specifically trains young women, particularly prepubescent girls, to be the skywalkers known as The Wonders. This decision stems from his belief that youthful innocence elicits a sense of concern from the audience, emphasizing the danger of their performance. He aims to ensure that spectators are focused on the girls’ safety rather than any sexual thoughts, which could diminish the tension and emotional impact of the act.

Ignacio's perspective challenges societal norms about sexuality and fear. He contends that as long as they are perceived as young and innocent, the audience will feel genuine worry for their well-being during the perilous performances. Once the young acrobats reach an age where sexual attraction becomes a factor, he believes the audience's concern for their safety diminishes. This unique approach to the art of performance highlights both the manipulation of public sentiment and the complexities of gender dynamics in entertainment.