“ People say, “Oh, Mr. Sendak, I wish I were in touch with my childhood self, like you.” As if it were all quaint and succulent, like Peter Pan. Childhood is cannibals and psychotics vomiting into your mouth! I say, “You ARE in touch, lady. You’re mean to your kids, you treat your husband like shit, you lie, you’re selfish…that is your childhood self!” In reality, childhood is deep and rich. It’s vital, mysterious and profound. I remember my own childhood vividly. I knew terrible things but I knew I mustn’t let adults know I knew. It would scare them.
Maurice Sendak
