Meaning: The quote by Robert Kirkman, an American comic book writer, reflects on the idea of staying in touch with one's younger self and the changing interests and habits of teenagers. Kirkman, known for creating "The Walking Dead" comic series, suggests that despite being 24 years old, he believes he can still relate to the experiences and preferences of a 17-year-old. He also humorously mentions the possibility of "faking it" in order to connect with younger audiences, implying that the interests of teenagers have evolved and that they may not be as interested in traditional mediums such as comics.

Kirkman's statement about being close enough to 17 to remember what it was like indicates his belief in the proximity of his own youth, despite being a few years removed from being a teenager. This sentiment reflects the common notion that one's early twenties can still be closely linked to the experiences and mindset of being a teenager. It also suggests that Kirkman sees value in maintaining an understanding of the interests and perspectives of younger individuals, particularly as a creator of content aimed at a diverse audience.

Furthermore, Kirkman's playful remark about "faking it and getting away with it" touches on the idea of adapting to changing trends and preferences in youth culture. He implies that he could feign understanding of current teenage interests in order to connect with them, signaling an awareness of the evolving nature of adolescent preferences. This self-awareness and willingness to adapt to changing audience tastes are essential qualities for creators in any medium, particularly in the entertainment industry.

The final part of Kirkman's quote, "it's not like there are any teenagers that still read comics," reflects his acknowledgment of the shifting landscape of entertainment consumption among teenagers. He humorously suggests that teenagers may no longer be a significant audience for comics, indicating a recognition of the impact of digital media, video games, and other forms of entertainment on the interests of contemporary youth. This acknowledgment of the changing habits of teenagers reflects the need for creators to stay attuned to evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements.

In summary, Robert Kirkman's quote encapsulates the idea of staying connected to one's younger self, adapting to changing audience preferences, and recognizing the evolving landscape of youth entertainment consumption. His playful and self-aware tone reflects the challenges and opportunities faced by creators in engaging with younger audiences and remaining relevant in an ever-changing media environment.