Once upon a time, children played races and hide-and-seek, but today they think about appearing and competing for likes on social networks.

Riccardo Messina quote explanation

This quote reflects on a shift in the activities and priorities of children over time, comparing traditional childhood games to contemporary behaviors influenced by social media. Let’s break down the elements:

1. “Once upon a time, children played races and hide-and-seek” – This part sets the nostalgic tone, recalling a time when children engaged in physical, outdoor activities like racing and playing hide-and-seek. These traditional games are often associated with outdoor play and face-to-face interactions.
2. “but today they think about appearing and competing for likes on social networks” – This contrasts the past with the present. Instead of engaging in physical games, the quote suggests that contemporary children are more focused on online activities. The phrase “appearing and competing for likes on social networks” highlights the shift towards seeking validation and attention on digital platforms.

In essence, the quote laments the change in the way children spend their time, suggesting a shift from wholesome, outdoor activities to a more virtual and potentially competitive environment where the measure of popularity comes from online interactions. It can be seen as a commentary on the impact of technology and social media on the childhood experiences of today’s generation.