The True Meaning of Smekday Youth Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Part.Paragraph)

Quote #4

I'm not a big fan of the word "child." I don't know any kid who likes it. But somehow we all grow up to be adults who say it all the time. It's an insult when they use it to describe another adult, but they still turn around and use it to describe us. Like we're not going to notice. Mostly adults only talk about "children" when they're trying to make us seem precious and defenseless anyway. (3.306)

Tip flat out hates when people condescend to her by using the word child to describe her. She's already driving and surviving on her own, so she doesn't want to listen to what anybody else has to say.

Quote #5

I resented anyone suggesting we needed to be "checked up on." On the other hand, I noticed for the first time that it was getting dark, and that my throat was cracked from thirst. (3.377)

When Vicki checks up on them because they are kids, Tip gets ticked off. We can't help but notice the second half of what Tip says though. She isn't paying attention to what time it is or what she needs, so maybe she does need someone to check in on her (as much as she hates to admit it).

Quote #6

"Well, you are not going back there tomorrow. We cannot have two children spending time alone with a crazy man, and Trey never should have told you the way." (3.392)

Vicki says this to Tip and J.Lo, as though she is their mom. Notice how she puts the emphasis on the fact that they are children and nothing more—like as kids they don't know how to take care of themselves. Is she right?