Meaning: This quote by Dave Rowntree, the musician and former drummer of the band Blur, reflects his concern about the lack of anarchy and edginess in children's television in the UK. Rowntree reminisces about the anarchic nature of kids' TV during his own childhood, contrasting it with the perceived safety and lack of controversy in contemporary children's programming.

The quote suggests that there has been a shift in the tone and content of children's TV over the years. Rowntree's use of the term "anarchic" in relation to kids' TV likely refers to the rebellious and unconventional nature of older children's programming. Anarchic content typically includes elements that challenge authority, societal norms, or traditional expectations, often incorporating humor and irreverence. This type of content can be seen as subversive and may push boundaries, making it potentially objectionable to parents or other authority figures.

Rowntree's assertion that kids' TV used to feature content that parents would object to, "if they got to object," implies that there was a sense of freedom and boundary-pushing in the programming of his youth. He suggests that the content was daring and controversial, perhaps addressing topics or themes that were deemed inappropriate or unconventional for a young audience.

The musician's observation about the shift towards "very safe" kids' TV highlights his belief that contemporary children's programming has become more sanitized, cautious, and lacking in the rebellious spirit that characterized earlier eras of kids' TV. This sentiment may reflect a broader concern about the impact of overly cautious content on children's creativity, imagination, and exposure to diverse perspectives.

The quote also raises questions about the role of risk-taking and boundary-pushing in children's entertainment. While it is important for content aimed at young audiences to be age-appropriate and sensitive to developmental needs, the absence of challenging or unconventional material may limit children's exposure to diverse ideas and perspectives. Additionally, the absence of anarchy in kids' TV may contribute to a lack of critical thinking and creative engagement among young viewers.

It is worth noting that the perception of what constitutes "anarchy" in children's programming can vary widely based on cultural, social, and historical contexts. What may have been considered anarchic and subversive in one era or cultural setting may not align with the expectations and values of another. Therefore, discussions about the nature of children's TV content should consider the evolving societal norms and the diverse needs of young audiences.

In conclusion, Dave Rowntree's quote reflects his nostalgia for the anarchic and edgy nature of children's television during his youth, contrasting it with what he sees as the current lack of such qualities in kids' TV. The quote prompts reflection on the evolving nature of children's programming, the impact of cautious content on young audiences, and the balance between age-appropriate material and the need for creative, thought-provoking content for children.