There are few places outside his own play where a child can contribute to the world in which he finds himself. His world: dominated by adults who tell him what to do and when to do it --benevolent tyrants who dispense gifts to their good subjects and punishment to their bad ones, who are amused at the cleverness of children and annoyed by their stupidities.

Summary

This quote highlights the limited ability of children to have a substantial impact on the world they inhabit, apart from within the realm of their play. The world children inhabit is largely controlled by adult figures, who enforce rules and bestow rewards and punishments. Adults may find amusement in children's intelligence but can also be frustrated by their mistakes. The quote suggests that children lack agency and independence outside the domain of their imaginative play, emphasizing the hierarchical power dynamics between adults and children.

Topics