Meaning: This quote by Charles Dickens reflects on the idea of embracing one's inner child and the innocence and joy that comes with it. It suggests that society should not be ashamed of its childlike qualities, but rather embrace them as a part of our true nature. The quote also implies that the pride and arrogance of adulthood often distort and tarnish the purity and happiness that we experienced in our younger years.

In this quote, Charles Dickens seems to be advocating for a return to a more innocent and carefree state of being. He suggests that by sending forth the child and the childish man together, we can reclaim the happiness and simplicity of our youth, and shed the pretenses and self-importance that come with adulthood. The notion of "blushing for the pride that libels our own old happy state" highlights the idea that our adult selves often misrepresent or malign the joyful and uncomplicated nature of childhood.

It's worth noting that Charles Dickens was a keen observer of human behavior and the societal norms of his time. His writings often depicted the struggles of the lower classes in Victorian England and advocated for social reform. In this quote, he may be criticizing the societal pressure to conform to adult expectations and behaviors, which often lead to the suppression of the natural exuberance and innocence of childhood.

Overall, the quote encourages us to reevaluate the way we perceive and prioritize the different stages of life. It challenges the notion that growing up necessarily means abandoning the childlike wonder and joy that we once possessed. Instead, it suggests that by embracing our inner child, we can reclaim a sense of authenticity and happiness that may have been lost in the process of maturing.

This quote from Charles Dickens is a poignant reminder of the importance of maintaining a balance between the responsibilities of adulthood and the spontaneity and joy of childhood. It serves as a call to action to reexamine the societal norms and expectations that often force individuals to suppress their natural inclinations towards innocence and simplicity. By acknowledging and honoring the child and childish man within us, we can strive to create a more genuine and fulfilling existence, free from the constraints of pride and distorted self-images.

In conclusion, Charles Dickens' quote serves as a powerful reflection on the value of embracing our inner child and the inherent happiness and purity associated with it. It challenges the societal norms that often pressure individuals to conform to an adult persona, at the expense of their natural innocence and joy. By sending forth the child and the childish man together, we can strive to reclaim the genuine and unadulterated happiness that defines our old happy state.