Yes, in some ways it can be considered dark. There are elements of lost childhood, abandonment, and the constant struggle between imagination and reality.
Well, it depends on how you interpret it. You could say the concept of children being lost in a fantasy world and never returning to reality has a sort of dark aspect to it.
The 'true dark story' of Peter Pan might refer to some interpretations that see darker elements in the original tale. For example, Peter Pan is a character who doesn't age and lives in a world of eternal childhood. This could be seen as a form of escapism that has a dark side, as it means not facing the responsibilities and growth of adulthood. Also, the relationship between Peter and the Lost Boys has some complex and potentially dark undertones, like his somewhat controlling nature over them.
Peter Pan's story has a dark undertone in that it shows the fear of growing up and the consequences of constantly running away from reality. His world might seem magical, but it also masks a deeper longing for something more substantial and the pain of never truly evolving.
One of the dark elements is Peter's disregard for the consequences of his actions. He lures children away from their homes to Neverland without considering how their families might feel. Also, Captain Hook's origin story often involves some dark aspects, like his feud with Peter which is full of violence and revenge.
Peter Pan would still be a main character, but in a much darker portrayal. He might be more self - centered and manipulative. Wendy could also be a main character, perhaps facing more complex and dangerous situations. And of course, Captain Hook, who might be more than just a simple villain, but a character with his own tragic backstory in this darker take.
The 'dark Peter Pan novel' often explores the darker aspects of the classic Peter Pan story. It might show a more menacing side of Peter Pan, perhaps his disregard for the rules of the Neverland in a more sinister way. It could also delve into the fates of the Lost Boys in a less than idyllic manner, showing the harsher realities of their existence in that magical yet dangerous place.