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When childhood dies, its corpses are called adults and they enter society, one of the politer names of hell. That is why we dread children, even if we love them, they show us the state of our decay.
Brian Aldiss
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote reflects on the loss of innocence with adulthood, suggesting it leads to a decay of the joyful aspects of childhood.

Brian Aldiss's quote critiques the transition from childhood to adulthood, suggesting that the innocent and pure nature of childhood is lost, leaving behind 'corpses' that symbolize the emotional and imaginative decay inherent in adult life. It highlights a societal disdain for the truths that children embody, recognizing their unfiltered perspective as a mirror reflecting the loss of vitality and joy in adults.

Themes

ChildhoodAdulthoodSocietyInnocenceDecay

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion on the impact of childhood experiences in adulthood, this quote serves as a reflective statement on societal expectations.

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