Kids need to encounter kids like themselves - kids who can sometimes be crabby and fresh and rebellious, kids who talk back and disobey, tell fibs and get into trouble, and are nonetheless still likable and redeemable.
Judith ViorstRead
Starting after 60, I thought, 'I'm not going to be able to write a book of poems on the 70s. It's going to be all moans and groans and complaints, and what is there to laugh about?' But I found plenty to laugh about.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Even in challenging times, there is often humor and joy to be found.
Judith Viorst reflects on the idea that while it may seem difficult to find positivity or humor in life's struggles, especially later in life, she discovered that there are still many reasons to laugh and find joy. This suggests that even in the face of adverse circumstances, one's perspective can reveal unexpected humor and resilience.
Themes
HumorLifePoetryResiliencePerspective
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared during a literary discussion on the themes of humor in literature.
More from Judith Viorst
All quotes →The need to become a separate self is as urgent as the yearning to merge forever. And as long as we, not our mother, initiate parting, and as long as our mother remains reliably there, it seems possible to risk, and even to revel in, standing alone.
Judith ViorstRead
Lust is what keeps you wanting to do it even when you have no desire to be with each other. Love is what makes you want to be with each other even when you have no desire to do it.
Judith ViorstRead
Growing up means letting go of the dearest megalomaniacal dreams of our childhood. Growing up means knowing they can't be fulfilled. Growing up means gaining the wisdom and the skills to get what we want within the limitations imposed by reality - a reality which consists of diminished powers, restricted freedoms and, with the people we love, imperfect connections.
Judith ViorstRead
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