High expectations weren't nurtured in my neck of nowhere back then - children weren't fawned over from an early age as 'gifted' and groomed for a prizewinning future self-esteem was considered something you had to pick from the garden yourself.

- James Wolcott

James Wolcott, an American author and critic, reflects on the lack of nurturing high expectations in his childhood. He notes that children were not encouraged to excel from an early age, unlike today where self-esteem is often manufactured. This quote highlights the importance of genuine self-esteem and the consequences of not fostering it in children.

The quote emphasizes the significance of genuine self-esteem and the need to encourage children to excel from an early age. It also critiques the modern tendency to manufacture self-esteem in children, which can have negative consequences.

The quote is likely set in the author's childhood, which was likely in the mid-20th century. This context is important because it highlights the differences in societal expectations and parenting styles between then and now.

James Wolcott is an American author and critic. He is best known for his work as a film and television critic, and has written for various publications including The New Yorker and Vanity Fair.

This quote can be applied to parenting and education. Parents and educators can learn from Wolcott's experience and strive to create an environment where children feel encouraged to excel and develop genuine self-esteem.

There are no notable criticisms or controversies surrounding this quote.

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Quote by James Wolcott