Children Quote by Marguerite Duras
““And modern houses don't have passages, either, for children to play and run about in, and for dogs, umbrellas, coats and satchels. And don't forget that passages and corridors are where the young ones curl up and go to sleep when they're tired, and where you go and collect them to put them to bed. That's where they go when they're four years old and have had enough of the grown-ups and their philosophy. That's where, when they're unsure of themselves, they go and have a quiet cry. Houses never have enough room for children, not even if they're castles. Children don't actually look at houses, but they know them and all their nooks and crannies better than their mothers do. They rummage about. They snoop around. They don't consciously look at houses any more than they look at the walls of flesh that enclose them before they can see anything at all — but they know them. It's when they leave the house that they look at it.””
About This Quote
Modern homes lack intimate spaces for children’s spontaneous play and emotional refuge, reflecting a loss of nurturing environments.
In simple terms: Homes no longer nurture kids.
Key Takeaway
Design influences child development.
Themes
architecture
childhood
space
emotional safety
Mood
nostalgic
critical
Type
social commentary
reflective
When to use this quote
- urban apartment living
- school design
- elderly care facilities
Key Concepts
environmental psychology
socialization
Practical Applications
- Incorporate nooks for play
- Design flexible communal areas
Questions to Reflect On
- How does spatial design affect emotional health?
- What minimal changes can restore intimacy?
A Different Perspective
Children can adapt to varied spaces; not all modern homes are barren.
