"There was a great deal of peer recognition to be gained in elementary school by being able to draw well. One girl could draw horses so well, she was looked upon as a kind of sorceress"

During childhood, particularly in the formative years of elementary school, peer recognition and social standing often hinge on unique talents and abilities. Among children, artistic skill is not just valued for its own sake, but is often seen as a magical or mysterious power, especially when it surpasses that of one's peers. The passage highlights the almost mythical way that children regard exceptional ability; the girl who can draw horses so masterfully becomes someone remarkable, even supernatural, to her classmates. Her skill sets her apart in a way that is both enviable and awe-inspiring, emphasizing how accomplishments can elevate a young person’s status in the eyes of their peers.

The use of the word "sorceress" conveys more than just admiration, it signals an almost superstitious reverence, as if such talent cannot be attained through ordinary means. For children, who are just developing an understanding of their capabilities and limitations, discovering that one person possesses a skill they can’t replicate can seem otherworldly. The ability to create lifelike images, especially of something as beloved and challenging to capture as horses, transforms the act of drawing from a simple pastime into an extraordinary feat.

This dynamic reveals the role that art and creativity play in the social fabric of childhood, serving as a vehicle for social mobility and cementing friendships or rivalries. Artistic talent becomes a form of currency, offering validation and acceptance within the group. For the children observing this talent, it may also evoke a sense of wonder, inspiration, or even jealousy, sparking aspirations to reach similar heights or to revere those who have. Altogether, the passage encapsulates the powerful position of artistry in early social life, where mastery in a visible, universally appreciated domain can equate to near-magical status among peers.