In Salman Rushdie's "Midnight's Children," the quote highlights the profound impact that adults' actions and beliefs can have on children. It suggests that children are often shaped by the negative traits and harmful ideologies of the previous generation. This metaphorical "poison" reflects the toxic influences that adults unwittingly pass on, affecting the development of young individuals.
The statement serves as a commentary on the cycle of trauma and adversity, emphasizing that the challenges faced by the current generation are often rooted in the unresolved issues of their predecessors. Rushdie invites readers to consider the responsibility that adults hold in nurturing and shaping the lives of the younger generation, as their experiences will ultimately contribute to the future of society.