Doctor Who is one of the most beloved sci-fi shows of all time, and it’s easy to see why. With engaging characters, complex plots, and incredible special effects, it’s no wonder that fans all over the world can’t get enough of the Time Lord and his adventures.
One of the most memorable moments in the series is when the Doctor tells his companion, Martha Jones, to never eat pears. While this line may seem like a throwaway gag, it’s actually a reference to an important moment in the show’s history.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the story behind the Doctor’s warning and why it’s become such a beloved part of the show’s lore.
The Origin Story
The line “never eat pears” comes from the episode “Human Nature,” which aired during the show’s third series. In this episode, the Doctor (played by David Tennant) transforms himself into a human in order to hide from alien enemies known as the Family of Blood.
As part of his disguise, the Doctor takes on the persona of John Smith, a teacher at a boys’ school in 1913. In this form, he falls in love with a fellow teacher named Joan Redfern.
During a pivotal scene in the episode, Joan asks John what his favorite food is. His answer is “never eat pears.” He then goes on to explain that they’re too squishy and always make your chin wet.
While this line may seem like a small moment in the show’s history, it’s actually a key part of the story. It demonstrates how much the Doctor has changed from his Time Lord persona and is fully invested in his human form.
The Symbolism Behind the Line
So, why did the writers choose pears as the food that the Doctor dislikes? There are a few different theories.
One interpretation is that pears are meant to symbolize the Doctor’s vulnerability as a human. In his alien form, he’s practically invincible, but in this new form, he’s as fragile as any other human. The fact that he dislikes a harmless fruit is a way of showing that vulnerability.
Another theory is that the line is meant to reflect the Doctor’s aversion to anything that is too simple or normal. Pears are a common fruit, and the Doctor is anything but common. By rejecting them, he’s reinforcing his identity as an outsider.
Finally, it’s worth noting that the line “never eat pears” has become a meme within the Doctor Who community. Fans have created countless pieces of fan art and merchandise dedicated to the line, and it’s become a shorthand for referencing the show.
In Conclusion
While the line “never eat pears” may seem like a throwaway moment in Doctor Who history, it’s actually a key part of the show’s lore. It’s a symbol of the Doctor’s vulnerability as a human, a rejection of the normalcy that surrounds him, and a beloved meme within the fandom.
So, the next time you see a pear, you might just think of the Doctor and his love for adventure and non-squishy fruits.
