By Nina TorskaMon. 29 Apr. 20243min Read

10 Famous Where the Wild Things Are Quotes

In this blog, we explore key quotes from "Where the Wild Things Are" and delving into themes of imagination and emotion.
10 Famous Where the Wild Things Are Quotes

In Maurice Sendak's "Where the Wild Things Are," I am captivated by the vivid exploration of a child's imagination and the raw emotions that accompany it.

This book, a seminal work in children's literature, masterfully depicts the wild escapades of young Max, revealing deeper themes of anger, solitude, and the comforting power of home through its simple yet profound narrative and expressive illustrations.


"And now," cried Max, "let the wild rumpus start!" — Max


This exclamation marks the beginning of Max’s adventure with the Wild Things, symbolizing freedom and the exhilarating power of imagination. It’s a pivotal moment that celebrates the wild, untamed joy found in every child’s heart.

"I'll eat you up, I love you so!" — One of the Wild Things


This paradoxical declaration from a Wild Thing to Max encapsulates the intense and sometimes conflicting emotions of love and anger, mirroring the tumultuous feelings children often experience.

"And Max, the king of all wild things, was lonely and wanted to be where someone loved him best of all." — Narrator


Even as king, Max realizes the emptiness of power without love, reflecting his longing for the affection and safety of his home. This quote beautifully captures the essence of the story’s theme: the universal desire for belonging.

"Let the wild rumpus start!" — Max


Repeated as a joyful command, this line underscores the theme of liberation and the uninhibited expression of one's inner wildness, which is a core element of the book’s appeal.

"But the wild things cried, 'Oh please don't go—we'll eat you up—we love you so!'" — The Wild Things


The wild things’ plea for Max to stay with them highlights their attachment and the complex interplay of love and possessiveness, reflecting the sometimes difficult emotions involved in relationships.

"And Max stepped into his private boat and waved goodbye." — Narrator


Max’s departure signifies his growth and resolution to return to the reality of his family’s love, illustrating the journey back to self-control and the acceptance of familial boundaries.

"And he sailed back over a year and in and out of weeks and through a day." — Narrator


This whimsical description of Max’s journey back home captures the fluid and imaginative perception of time in a child’s mind, emphasizing the magical realism that Sendak so masterfully illustrates.

"To supper at last to where the wild things are." — Narrator


This line, which appears as Max begins his adventure, ties his real-world frustrations to his imaginative escape, suggesting that adventures can be a way to manage real-life challenges.

"And the walls became the world all around." — Narrator


As Max’s room transforms into a forest, this line metaphorically expresses how the boundaries of reality can expand into the realm of imagination, where children find solace and power.

"He smelled good things to eat so he gave up being king of where the wild things are." — Narrator


Max’s decision to return home is spurred by the comforting reminder of home and love, showing that no imaginary adventure can substitute for the feeling of being loved and cared for.

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Image source: Wikipedia


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If you liked this collection of quotes, you will also like our list of classic romance novels, available to read about, download and to import to PDF Reader Pro, right here on our blog.

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