In "An American Childhood," Annie Dillard reflects on the adult members of her society and their frequent references to the Bible. She questions why they would present what she perceives as a scandalous text, suggesting that if they truly understood it, they would want to conceal it from others. Dillard's observations reveal a certain irony in how adults engage with a document they seem to comprehend poorly.

Dillard expresses concern that the constant exposure to the Bible could lead the younger generation to adopt its radical ideas, which contrast sharply with the established norms of society. This notion highlights the tension between the beliefs of adults and the potentially transformative impact of the text on the youth, implying that what is often revered may also hold the power to challenge prevailing viewpoints.