In Tom's Midnight Garden, Tom often finds himself pondering questions about the garden’s origins and significance. He writes to Peter, expressing frustration at forgetting to ask Hatty about it, highlighting his tendency to lose track of these thoughts during the day while at the Kitsons' flat. Tom's curiosity is evident as he devises thoughtful inquiries, showing that he wants to understand more about the magical place he discovers.

However, when night falls and he enters the garden, his focus shifts from investigation to play. The enchanting environment transforms his thoughts, allowing him to reconnect with his childhood. Instead of being a detective, he immerses himself in the joy of being a boy with a friend, which emphasizes the garden's role as a space of wonder and companionship rather than just a subject of inquiry.