“The Source Creative Adult Is a Child Who Has Survived”
Understanding the Origin of the Quote
In recent times, a quote often surfaces in discussions about creativity and childhood: “The creative adult is a child who has survived.” This saying resonates with those who believe in nurturing the imaginative spark inherent in children. However, the origins of this quote are murky, with many attributing it incorrectly to the renowned author Ursula K. Le Guin.
Misattribution to Ursula K. Le Guin
Ursula K. Le Guin, a celebrated author of fantasy and science fiction, has often been linked to this quote. However, she never claimed authorship. In her writings, Le Guin emphasized the importance of imagination and creativity but did not craft this exact phrase. Her essay, “Why Are Americans Afraid of Dragons?” touches upon similar themes. In this piece, she argues that maturity involves nurturing childhood qualities rather than abandoning them. Le Guin states, “An adult is not a dead child, but a child who survived,” a sentiment that has been misquoted and transformed over time.
Evolution of the Quote
The misattribution likely began with Robin W. Winks, who, in 1983, mentioned Le Guin in his book “An American’s Guide To Britain.” Winks wrote, “An excellent writer of science fiction, Ursula LeGuin, has written that the creative adult is a child who has survived.” He did not use quotation marks, suggesting a paraphrase rather than a direct quote. This nuanced difference might have inadvertently led to the widespread misquote.
The Cultural Impact of the Quote
Despite its dubious origins, the quote captures a widespread belief about the importance of maintaining childlike wonder. Many educators and creatives use this phrase to advocate for educational systems that preserve creativity rather than stifle it. It highlights a critical concern: that adults should not lose the imaginative qualities they possessed as children.
Similar Sentiments in Literature
The idea that adults should preserve their childhood imagination is not unique to Le Guin. Gregory G. Young’s 1978 book, “Your Personality and How to Live with It,” presents a similar thought: “an adult is a child who has kept his sense of wonder intact while growing in wisdom and age.” This shows that the notion has been a part of cultural discussions for decades.
Dealing with Misattributions
Ursula K. Le Guin, in her later years, addressed this misattribution directly. She expressed frustration over the persistence of false quotes online. She compared incorrect internet quotes to “box elder beetles,” pests that are hard to eliminate. This analogy underscores her irritation and the difficulty of correcting misinformation once it spreads.
The Role of Technology in Quote Misattribution
The internet has played a significant role in the spread of misattributed quotes. Websites often aggregate quotes without verifying their accuracy, leading to widespread misinformation. For instance, Julian F. Fleron, who managed a quotation database, inadvertently propagated this misquote due to incorrect information sourced online.
Preserving Childhood Creativity
Regardless of its origin, the quote inspires many to reflect on the value of childhood creativity. It serves as a reminder that fostering imagination in children can lead to innovative and creative adults. Many believe that educational systems should emphasize this aspect to cultivate creative thinking in future generations.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
In conclusion, “The creative adult is a child who has survived” speaks to a universal truth about the continuity of imagination from childhood to adulthood. Source While its attribution remains contested, its message is clear and valuable. We must strive to preserve and nurture the creativity within us, allowing it to flourish throughout our lives. This philosophy encourages the cultivation of environments where creativity is not only allowed but celebrated.