Following the announcement of Paul Wesley as the new Kirk, Trek fans can rejoice: The beloved captain is back on the bridge. By bringing characters like Kirk back to the screen, Strange New Worlds promises fans a sweet feeling of nostalgia while also covering a gap in the franchise's story.
Since the show isn't released yet, it's only fair to look for inspiration from where it all began. The iconic James T. Kirk offers the captain's guidance fitting to prepare for the future voyage.
Catchphrase
"Steady As She Goes..."
James Kirk isn't the focus of the new Trek show, but his words help to settle the correct atmosphere for the period Strange New Worlds will explore. Far from Klingons and Cardassians in Deep Space Nine, the prequel is set before Kirk takes the conn, back when Pike commanded the Enterprise.
Because of that, this quote is an ode to the Enterprise in its early days, and demonstrates the connection between a captain and their ship. Among what fans expect for Strange New Worlds, to see the original Enterprise "steady as she goes" will be a thrill.
Self-Confidence
"You Either Believe In Yourself Or You Don't."
Not every show will please all Trek fans equally, but while they may have their differences, one thing that must be remembered is that Star Trek is about hope. From Kirk to Janeway, captains have the responsibility of guiding their crews through perils and, by doing so, offering words of advice for real life.
As this quote encapsulates, Kirk was a believer in humanity and a believer of self-confidence. It's not by accident that this character shaped entire generations of fans with his bravery. Although every captain is unique, Captain Pike now has the responsibility of taking the crew further and giving a new generation more inspirational words.
Creativity
"Without Freedom Of Choice, There's No Creativity."
As happened with many shows after The Original Series, Strange New Worlds has faced resistance since some fans don't feel comfortable with the prequel being made. However, according to Captain Kirk, creativity must accompany freedom of choice. That isn't different concerning the directions the new series might take.
While one hopes the new show stays true to the beloved character of Spock, it's only natural that new perspectives will come to light, which might not please all fans. As the saying goes, to each their own, with creativity and freedom walking side by side in any Trek project.
No Bigotry On The Enterprise
"Leave Any Bigotry In Your Quarters."
One of the most refreshing things about the Trek franchise is its ability to bring representation to groups scarcely represented in science fiction. Since the '60s, Star Trek tackled deep issues and had a diverse crew, including the magnificent Nichelle Nichols as Uhura.
As this quote highlights, bigotry doesn't belong in the Trek universe, and Strange New Worlds also has a cast that includes underrepresented groups, like the alien Hemmer, played by the blind actor Bruce Horak. These poignant words of Kirk are a reminder that there's no room for prejudice aboard the Enterprise, and there should never be.
Vulcan Miracles
"Why, Mr. Spock, You Almost Make Me Believe In Miracles."
Spock has relevant quotes throughout The Original Series, but that doesn't mean Kirk hasn't shared a word or two about his First Officer too. While no one will ever replace the impact Leonard Nimoy had as the character, the new series promises to shed new light on the emblematic Vulcan, played by Ethan Peck.
Kirk replies this to Spock after he mentions Kirk almost makes him believe in luck, making this one of the sweetest interactions between these two. Between luck and miracles, fans should be prepared to see them meet again, or more accurately, meet for the first time.
What The Enterprise Is About
"Risk Is Our Business. That's What This Starship Is About."
This Captain Kirk quote is a relevant reminder of the nature of Star Trek and something that shouldn't be overlooked in the new show. Among the reasons why Shatner is the best Kirk lies in the eloquence of his speeches, which demonstrated his firm belief in Starfleet and his job. Although Pike is far more restrained than Kirk, courage and determination can't be left out in the making of a captain or a new Trek show.
Not So Serious
"Whales, Mr. Scott, Whales!"
No matter how many serious topics Trek tackled over the years, there was always room for goofiness and comedy in the franchise, like the infamous "alien" dogs from The Original Series and the rescue of humpback whales.
While the show's tone might be different, this quote sheds light on the goofy nature that Star Trek can't lose. After all, if the terrific Admiral Kirk had time to save whales in The Voyage Home, Strange New Worlds might as well have a couple of funny remarks.
From Pike To Kirk
"When Christopher Pike First Gave Me His Ship, He Had Me Recite The Captain's Oath."
In Star Trek: Into Darkness, Chris Pine's Kirk recalls the moment Pike gave him the Enterprise. Although that happened in a different timeline, and the event isn't mentioned in The Original Series, this quote could be a lovely inspiration for the moment when Pike gives the Enterprise to Kirk. Such a scene would fix the current gap in the franchise, tying Strange New Worlds to the '60s series in a gesture that honors both captains.
Strange New Worlds
"There's No Such Thing As The Unknown, Only Things Temporarily Hidden."
Even if the show takes a turn not yet seen in the franchise, there's no reason for despair. As this quote exemplifies, the "unknown" is just temporarily hidden, and soon fans will experience the new series and decide if they'll embark on the latest adventure or not.
In any case, Trek has always pushed the idea of keeping an open mind and not being against strange, new realities. Kirk is the classic example of boldly going into the unknown, and the unknown in the entertainment industry includes innovative takes on the franchise.
Into New Adventures
"This Ship And Her History Will Shortly Become The Care Of Another Crew. To Them And Their Posterity Will We Commit Our Future. They Will Continue The Voyages We Have Begun."
Pike wasn't the first to command the Enterprise, nor it was Kirk, and they were aware of that. Similarly, the crews and the ships might change, but Star Trek keeps moving on, which is part of its beauty. This wholesome quote said by Kirk in The Undiscovered Country sums up the franchise's history: Each crew is unique, and the Enterprise has room for all of them.
As another crew hops aboard the ship for Strange New Words, fans can fulfill Kirk's words, continuing their voyages into the Trek universe.