Adults Quote by Leo Tolstoy
““Though the children did not know Levin well and did not remember when they had last seen him, they did not feel towards him any of that strange shyness and antagonism so often felt by children towards grown-up people who 'pretend,' which causes them to suffer as painfully. Pretence about anything sometimes deceives the wisest and shrewdest man, but, however cunningly it is hidden, a child of the meanest capacity feels it and is repelled by it.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy, 1877
Children instinctively detect insincerity, feeling repulsion even when adults hide it behind pretence.
In simple terms: Kids sense fake behavior and are turned off.
Key Takeaway
Be genuine, especially with children.
Themes
authenticity
childhood
trust
social dynamics
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
advice
observational
When to use this quote
- parenting
- teaching
- leadership
- customer service
- team management
Key Concepts
psychology of perception
emotional honesty
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure your actions match your words?
- What can you do when you notice pretence in yourself?
A Different Perspective
Adults can mask deceit, but children’s intuition often reveals it, limiting its effectiveness.
![“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)
