The Wizard of Oz Coming of Age Quotes

How we cite our quotes: All quotations are from The Wizard of Oz.

Quote #1

DOROTHY: If happy little bluebirds fly beyond the rainbow, why oh why can't I?

A big part of the Coming of Age equation involves pushing against boundaries. That's why teenagers give grown-ups so many fits. Here, Dorothy's pointing out that she's really kind of had it with her drab little corner of the world, and ready to do a little growing up. She feels misunderstood and ignored.

Quote #2

SCARECROW: You see, I can't even scare a crow. They come from miles around just to eat in my field and laugh in my face. Oh, I'm a failure because I haven't got a brain.

This is kind of a childish complaint when you think of it, not because his concerns are illegitimate, but because he thinks his lack of brains are the problem. Trust us big guy: it isn't.

Quote #3

SCARECROW: Come along, Dorothy. You don't want any of those apples.

See what we mean? The Scarecrow has plenty of brains. He just didn't have anywhere to apply them in a practical context. Once he does, oh my does he bloom! Here, he cleverly finds a way to get Dorothy something to eat.