Many critics have been puzzled by the popularity of a story that is primarily a philosophical discussion with little plot.

Many adults are likely to wonder why the story is popular with young adults.

Perhaps the answer lies in the story's thematic similarity to J. M. Barrie's play, Peter Pan (1904). In Barrie's play youngsters try to remain children forever. The adult world is viewed as an unpleasant place filled with responsibilities; childhood is associated with fun, a carefree life, and imagination. "The Silver Key" also expresses sorrow at the seeming loss of imagination that comes with maturity, and childhood is seen as a refuge from a dreary adult world. This complicated theme includes nostalgia for times past, weariness with a world grown too complicated to understand, and a belief in the value of imagination.

One of the weaknesses of the story is its lack...