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Barbaric Quote by Maurice Sendak

“I think there is something barbaric in children, and it's missing in lots of books for them because we don't like to think of it. We want them to be happy [but] childhood is a very tough time.” quote by Maurice Sendak
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“I think there is something barbaric in children, and it's missing in lots of books for them because we don't like to think of it. We want them to be happy [but] childhood is a very tough time.”

Maurice Sendak

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Art of Childhood, 1995

Children possess a raw, untamed quality that is often omitted from literature because adults avoid confronting its harshness, despite childhood being inherently challenging.

In simple terms: Children have a wild side often hidden in books.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge children's complexity.

Themes

childhood rawness literature avoidance

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

literary

When to use this quote

  • parenting
  • education
  • writing children's

Key Concepts

psychology developmental theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do adults shy away from children's harsh realities?
  • How can stories reflect true childhood?
A Different Perspective

May be uncomfortable for some audiences.

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