The always rich and aromatic Coffee With Kenobi bring us Becca’s Chava Chat by Star Wars fan and blogger Becca Benjamin. This entry looks at some of the details and motivations behind Shmi Skywalker, and the wider role of motherhood in the Star Wars story, a key role which has had surprisingly little focus but perhaps because of that a huge effect on the wider saga.
Probably the most poignant display of motherhood, is when Anakin “looks back” and runs straight into his mother’s arms. He’s so innocent and helpless at that moment; full of tears and fear. How Shmi was able to keep her strong composure, I will never know, nor fully comprehend. Every ounce of my instincts cries out, No! Don’t let him go. He’s your son and your whole world. That’s probably pretty selfish of me, but I know, if it were me….I couldn’t do it, I just couldn’t. “Will I ever see you again?” – Anakin
“What does your heart tell you?” – Shmi
Have a good read, it’s a thoroughly thought-provoking entry that will really make you think about Shmi and her role in Star Wars, as well as noting some very insightful parallels between Shmi and the other characters in The Phantom Menace. I’m already looking forward to the next Becca’s Chava Chat.
