Meaning: The quote "Even when freshly washed and relieved of all obvious confections, children tend to be sticky" by Fran Lebowitz, a well-known journalist and author, humorously captures the enduring reality of childhood. With a playful and insightful tone, Lebowitz highlights the innate nature of children to attract and retain stickiness, despite efforts to maintain cleanliness.

In this quote, Lebowitz skillfully uses the metaphor of stickiness to convey the persistent and undeniable quality of childhood. The phrase "even when freshly washed and relieved of all obvious confections" suggests that even after a thorough cleaning and removal of any visible dirt or mess, children still possess a certain stickiness that is not easily eradicated. This humorous observation resonates with anyone who has spent time around children, as it captures a universal truth about the nature of childhood.

The metaphor of stickiness can be interpreted in various ways. On a literal level, it refers to the tendency of children to attract dirt, food, and other substances that make them physically sticky. However, on a deeper level, the metaphor can also symbolize the emotional and energetic stickiness of childhood. Children have a way of leaving an indelible impression on those around them, creating lasting bonds and connections that are not easily shaken off.

Furthermore, the quote can be seen as a commentary on the enduring innocence and spontaneity of childhood. Despite attempts to clean and tidy up, children inevitably return to a state of stickiness, symbolizing their inherent capacity for messiness and unpredictability. This can be interpreted as a celebration of the joy and vitality that children bring to the world, even in their most unpolished and sticky moments.

Fran Lebowitz's wry observation about the stickiness of children also invites reflection on the nature of adulthood. In contrast to children, adults often strive for a sense of control and cleanliness in their lives. However, the stickiness of children serves as a reminder of the unavoidable messiness and unpredictability of life. It encourages a shift in perspective, embracing the imperfections and unpredictability that make life rich and full of surprises.

In conclusion, Fran Lebowitz's quote "Even when freshly washed and relieved of all obvious confections, children tend to be sticky" offers a delightful and thought-provoking perspective on the nature of childhood. Through the clever use of metaphor and humor, Lebowitz captures the enduring stickiness of children, both literally and figuratively. This quote encourages us to appreciate the messy and unpredictable aspects of childhood, as well as to embrace the inherent stickiness of life itself.