I look at my son and his relationship to technology, and I think back to when I was six and how wildly different the world is in that regard. I see him using an iPhone and all this stuff, and then I think back to when I was six. We didn't even have computers in our houses at all yet. This is a huge gap between our experiences as children.

In this quote, Jeff Lemire reflects on the profound technological changes that have occurred between his own childhood and that of his son. He points out the gap between the two generations, highlighting how much technology has evolved over time. Lemire notes that when he was six, there were no computers in the house, which contrasts sharply with his son’s experience, where smartphones and other modern devices like the iPhone are integral parts of daily life. This observation underscores the rapid pace of technological advancement and its impact on childhood experiences.

Lemire’s comment touches on the digital divide between generations. As a child, he grew up in a time when technology was not as accessible or pervasive as it is today. In contrast, his son has grown up in a world where technology is a constant presence, shaping how he learns, plays, and interacts with others. This difference in experience highlights how the internet, smartphones, and other devices have transformed everyday life, making digital literacy and access to technology central to modern childhood development.

The origin of this quote comes from Lemire’s personal reflection on the changes in technology over the years. As a well-known comic book artist and writer, he has witnessed firsthand how technology has influenced storytelling and the way people consume media. His statement points to the shift in how children experience the world, not just through traditional means like books and outdoor play, but through the immersive world of digital devices and online content.

Lemire’s perspective also raises questions about the implications of technology on childhood development. While technology offers numerous benefits, such as access to information and new forms of entertainment, it also introduces challenges related to screen time, socialization, and the digital divide. His reflection invites a broader conversation about how technology is shaping the next generation’s experiences and whether these changes are for the better or whether they come with unintended consequences.