Adults Quote by John Green
““That's what my dad is like-he really disappeared a long time ago, which is maybe why it didn't bother me much. I wish he were here, but I've wished that for a long time. Adults think they're wielding power, but really power is wielding them.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Looking for Alaska, 2005
Adults think they control power, but often they are controlled by it, revealing a reversal of agency.
In simple terms: Adults are controlled by power.
Key Takeaway
Recognize hidden influences.
Themes
power
control
agency
Mood
introspective
thought‑provoking
Type
literary
psychological
When to use this quote
- family relationships
- self‑reflection
- coming‑of‑age
- authority challenges
Key Concepts
Power dynamics
personal autonomy
Questions to Reflect On
- Who holds power over you?
- How can you reclaim agency?
A Different Perspective
Power can be subtle and hard to detect.
![“He [an earnest young reporter] seemed to share the view of many intelligent, well-educated, well-meaning people that, while adult literature may aim to be art, the object of children's books is to whip the little rascals into shape.” quote by Katherine Paterson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2cf/katherine-paterson-2365_adults_he-an-earnest-young-reporter-seemed-to-s_6101.jpg)
