Children Quote by Anne Sexton
““The children are all crying in their pens and the surf carries their cries away. They are old men who have seen too much, their mouths are full of dirty clothes, the tongues poverty, tears like puss. The surf pushes their cries back. Listen.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: “The Children” by Anne Sexton, 1971
The poet describes children’s suffering, likening their cries to the sea’s indifferent waves, highlighting neglect and poverty.
In simple terms: Children suffer while society ignores them.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and act on hidden suffering.
Themes
poverty
neglect
voice
empathy
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
poetic
social commentary
When to use this quote
- urban poverty
- social services
- community advocacy
Key Concepts
social injustice
human dignity
silence
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we turn empathy into concrete help?
- What responsibilities do we have toward marginalized children?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor may romanticize tragedy, obscuring practical solutions.
