This quote delves into the often romanticized view of childhood innocence and the human desire to idealize simplicity and purity. It highlights a paradox: while many adults yearn for the idyllic innocence of childhood and seek to reconnect with nature and their origins, they tend to overlook the inherent struggles, conflicts, and suffering that children experience. The sentimental person, who celebrates the innocence of children, may be tempted to view that phase of life as a golden age of unblemished happiness, but this perspective ignores the complex realities of development. Children are not merely pure and joyful beings; they also grapple with fears, frustrations, and internal battles as they grow. The quote suggests that idealizing innocence can be a form of escapism, a way for adults to distance themselves from the complexities of their own lives or the painful parts of human existence. It invites reflection on the importance of acknowledging life's full spectrum—joy and suffering alike—without romanticizing or dismissing any part. Recognizing that innocence contains both beauty and struggle can lead to a more authentic understanding of ourselves and others. In the context of the book 'Steppenwolf' by Hermann Hesse, this idea resonates deeply, as the novel explores the duality of human nature—the peaceful and the tumultuous—and the ongoing quest for self-acceptance amid life's contradictions.