Artistic Quote by Margaret Mead
“... some veil between childhood and the present is necessary. If the veil is withdrawn, the artistic imagination sickens and dies, the prophet looks in the mirror with a disillusioned and cynical sneer, the scientist goes fishing.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Coming of Age, Margaret Mead, 1955
A protective distance between childhood and adulthood preserves imagination; removing it leads to cynicism and loss of wonder.
In simple terms: A veil keeps imagination alive; without it, people become cynical.
Maintain healthy boundaries between youth and adult life.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- parenting
- education
- creative work
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does nostalgia affect creativity?
- When is it healthy to let go of childhood wonder?
If the veil is too thick, growth may be stunted.