What I do as best I can is out of a deep respect for children, for how difficult their world is.

Maurice Sendak’s quote speaks to the deep empathy and respect he held for children. When he says, "What I do as best I can is out of a deep respect for children," Sendak is acknowledging the complexity and difficulty of a child’s experience. Despite their innocence, children often face challenges that adults may not fully recognize or understand. Sendak’s respect for children motivated him to create works, particularly through his beloved book Where the Wild Things Are, that spoke to the emotional depth and complexity of childhood.

The origin of this quote can be traced to Sendak’s own experiences growing up and his career as a writer and illustrator. He often spoke about the tension between the innocence of childhood and the real-world difficulties that children face, such as fear, loneliness, and confusion. For Sendak, his art was a way of respecting and validating those experiences, giving voice to children’s emotions in a way that was both honest and sensitive. His works often explored the inner worlds of children, showing their ability to be both strong and vulnerable.

By focusing on how “difficult their world is,” Sendak emphasizes the emotional challenges children face. Whether it's dealing with fear, anger, or even the desire for independence, children are constantly navigating their emotions and the world around them. Sendak respected their courage and resilience in the face of these difficulties. His art didn’t sugarcoat childhood; rather, it portrayed a more realistic view that validated children’s feelings and experiences.

Ultimately, Sendak’s quote reflects his belief that his creative work was a way of honoring the complexity of childhood. It was his attempt to create a space where children could see themselves reflected in a way that respected both their vulnerability and their strength. His deep respect for children’s inner lives made him one of the most influential creators of children's literature, as he understood the importance of portraying the truths of growing up with sensitivity and care.