His mother said that all children were arsonists at heart, and if not for the lighter he'd have used matches.
In "Oryx and Crake," the quote reflects a mother's belief about the innate, destructive tendencies of children. She suggests that every child has a natural inclination toward chaos or mischief, symbolized through the metaphor of arson. This idea implies that, given the right tools or opportunities, children might engage in harmful behaviors simply out of curiosity or playfulness.
The quote also highlights the theme of innate instincts versus societal influences. It raises questions about nature versus nurture, as it implies that if children were lacking certain stimuli, they would find other ways to channel their destructive impulses. The emphasis on the lighter suggests that the objects or tools available to children can shape their actions and behaviors significantly.
