In the book "Whip It" by Darren Shan, the idea of childhood as the purest state of being is emphasized. This purity is associated with a sense of innocence and openness that many carry within them throughout their lives. While people may venture away from this state due to life's complexities, the essence of their childhood remains a part of them.
The quote highlights that those who maintain a pure heart do not completely abandon their childhood. Instead, their journey through life may take them on unexpected paths, ultimately leading them back to that original state of purity they once knew. This reflects the notion that no matter how far one strays, the core values and feelings of childhood can always be rediscovered.