Skip to content

Children Quote by Jeanette Winterson

“I was happy, but happy is an adult word. You don't have to ask a child about happy, you see it. They are or they are not. Adults talk about being happy because largely they are not. Talking about it is the same as trying to catch the wind. Much easier to let it blow all over you. This is where I…” quote by Jeanette Winterson
Download Open image
““I was happy, but happy is an adult word. You don't have to ask a child about happy, you see it. They are or they are not. Adults talk about being happy because largely they are not. Talking about it is the same as trying to catch the wind. Much easier to let it blow all over you. This is where I disagree with the philosophers. They talk about passionate things but there is no passion in them. Never talk happiness with a philosopher.””

Jeanette Winterson

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Guardian, 1999

Adult concepts of happiness are often abstract, while children experience it directly; chasing it intellectually can be futile.

In simple terms: Adults overthink happiness; children just feel it.

Key Takeaway

Embrace simple, present joy.

Themes

happiness adulthood philosophy

Mood

reflective contemplative

Type

philosophical personal

When to use this quote

  • daily life
  • creative work
  • parenting
  • mental health practice

Key Concepts

existentialism psychology mindfulness

Questions to Reflect On

  • What simple moments bring you joy?
  • Can you let go of intellectualizing happiness?
A Different Perspective

Philosophical perspectives can offer valuable insights.

2.2 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Jeanette Winterson

Explore all 1,016 Jeanette Winterson quotes

More Children quotes

Browse all 62,396 Children quotes