Children Quote by D.H. Lawrence
““Only moderately ordinary children should be sent to school--so it seems to me.' 'I'm inclined to think just the opposite. I think it would probably make her more normal if she went away and mixed with other children.' 'She wouldn't mix, you see. You never really mixed, did you? And she wouldn't be willing even to pretend to. She's proud, and solitary, and naturally apart. If she has a single nature, why do you want to make her gregarious?' 'No, I don't want to make her anything. But I think school would be good for her.' 'Was it good for you?' Gerald's eyes narrowed uglily. School had been torture to him. Yet he had not questioned whether one should go through this torture.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Women, D.H. Lawrence, 1920
The narrator questions whether school benefits a solitary, proud child, suggesting that forced socialization may be harmful.
In simple terms: School may not suit every child's nature.
Key Takeaway
Consider individual needs before imposing conformity.
Themes
education
individuality
conformity
child development
Mood
conflicted
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- parenting decisions
- school enrollment
- special education
- social integration
Key Concepts
socialization
identity
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance social growth with personal temperament?
- What alternatives to traditional school could support unique personalities?
A Different Perspective
Children may thrive in alternative learning environments; school can be traumatic for some.
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