There are many sham diamonds in this life which pass for real, and vice versa.
William Makepeace ThackerayRead
There's a great power of imagination about these little creatures, and a creative fancy and belief that is very curious to watch . . . I am sure that horrid matter-of-fact child-rearers . . . do away with the child's most beautiful privilege. I am determined that Anny shall have a very extensive and instructive store of learning in Tom Thumbs, Jack-the-Giant-Killers, etc.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Imagination in children is vital for their development, and practical-minded adults may stifle this creativity.
In this quote, Thackeray emphasizes the importance of imagination in childhood. He suggests that children should be allowed to explore fantastical stories and creative ideas, as these experiences enhance their learning and retain their natural sense of wonder. The quote critiques those who focus solely on practical, matter-of-fact approaches to raising children, asserting that such rigidity can strip away the beautiful privilege of imaginative play and storytelling that is crucial for their development.
Themes
ImaginationChildrenCreativityLearningStories
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about childhood education, someone might quote Thackeray to advocate for storytelling in the curriculum.
More from William Makepeace Thackeray
All quotes →When you look at me, when you think of me, I am in paradise.
William Makepeace ThackerayRead
And in those varieties of pain of which we spoke anon, what a part of confidante has that poor teapot played ever since the kindly plant was introduced among us! What myriads of women have cried over it, to be sure! What sickbeds it has smoked by! What fevered lips have received refreshment from out of it! Nature meant very gently by women when she made that teaplant; and with a little thought what a series of pictures and groups the fancy may conjure up and assemble round the teapot and cup!
William Makepeace ThackerayRead
The play is done; the curtain drops,_x000D_ _x000D_ Slow falling to the prompter's bell_x000D_ _x000D_ A moment yet the actor stops_x000D_ _x000D_ And looks around to say farewell.
William Makepeace ThackerayRead
The moral world has no particular objection to vice, but an insuperable repugnance to hearing vice called by its proper name.
William Makepeace ThackerayRead
it is the ordinary lot of people to have no friends if they themselves care for nobody
William Makepeace ThackerayRead
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