Skip to content

Who told you you couldn't come back when you're grown? Was…

“Who told you you couldn't come back when you're grown? Was it the same person who told you grown-ups don't cry or blush or clap their hands when they're happy? Don't try to say otherwise, I've seen you fighting like a boxer to change your face so that it never shows anything. Whoever told you…” quote by Catherynne M. Valente
Download Open image
““Who told you you couldn't come back when you're grown? Was it the same person who told you grown-ups don't cry or blush or clap their hands when they're happy? Don't try to say otherwise, I've seen you fighting like a boxer to change your face so that it never shows anything. Whoever told you that's what growing up means is a villain , as true as a mustache. I am growing up, too, and look at me! I cry and I blush and I live in Fairyland always!””

Catherynne M. Valente

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote challenges rigid ideas of adulthood, urging acceptance of vulnerability and emotion as natural parts of growing up.

In simple terms: Growing up includes feeling and expressing emotions.

Key Takeaway

Embrace your feelings and stay true to yourself.

Themes

identity vulnerability growth emotional honesty

Mood

reflective hopeful defiant

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • parenting
  • adolescence
  • creative writing
  • mental health
  • self‑reflection

Key Concepts

psychology social norms self‑acceptance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you define “growing up”?
  • What emotions do you hide and why?
A Different Perspective

Societal pressure often forces people to hide emotions, limiting authentic self‑expression.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Catherynne M. Valente

Explore all 621 Catherynne M. Valente quotes

More Adulthood quotes

Browse all 651 Adulthood quotes