📝8/10

Counting down to Whomas 2024, one adventure at a time!

"Day 10: A Time-Traveler’s Holiday Blues"

A Day to Yourselves offers a poignant glimpse into the Ninth Doctor’s post-Time War psyche, blending melancholic introspection with heartwarming revelations. In this short story, the Doctor roams the universe searching for a world to save, only to find each one already protected by his future selves. It’s a quiet yet profound tale of self-discovery, healing, and the timeless bonds the Doctor shares across his incarnations.

A Poetic and Reflective Journey:

Dave Rudden’s lyrical prose beautifully captures the Ninth Doctor’s internal struggle, balancing his war-hardened trauma with the cheerful façade he uses to mask his sorrow. The story is at its best when delving into the Doctor’s solitude within the TARDIS. These moments of quiet reflection—where he contemplates his past, future selves, lost companions, and the destruction of Gallifrey—are masterfully written, offering deep insight into his character.

Alien Worlds and Whimsical Details:

The Doctor’s visits to different alien locales, from a holiday card factory to the Crystal Sphere, are vividly described, though not all settings are equally engaging. The whimsical first segment with Winston at the Holiday Card Company stands out as a delightful and imaginative highlight, while the latter locations, though atmospheric, don’t resonate as strongly.

The Sweetest Christmas Cards:

The story’s most touching element is the revelation that the Doctor’s future selves are leaving Christmas cards for him after saving the worlds he visits. This simple yet heartfelt gesture carries profound meaning, underscoring the ongoing connection between his incarnations. For the war-weary Ninth Doctor, it’s a subtle reminder that his own efforts matter, and that hope persists even in his darkest moments.

A Healing Step Forward:

A standout moment occurs when the Doctor enters the TARDIS wardrobe room for the first time since his regeneration, a space left untouched after the regenerated Ninth Doctor shattered its mirrors. This act symbolizes a crucial step in his journey toward self-acceptance and healing, making it one of the story’s most powerful and moving scenes.

Final Thoughts:

“A Day to Yourselves” is a beautifully crafted story that balances the Ninth Doctor’s raw grief with glimpses of hope and connection. While not every segment lands perfectly, the poetic descriptions, heartfelt revelations, and exploration of the Doctor’s psyche make it a standout piece for fans of the character.

A bittersweet reminder that even in his loneliest moments, the Doctor is never truly alone.