Final answer:
The examination of Milkman's focus on the past contrasts with other children's common forward-looking outlook and dreams for the future; a theme echoed in literature that explores the impact of childhood experiences on adult life.
Step-by-step explanation:
The focus on Milkman's concentration on things behind him implies a tendency to be reflective or preoccupied with the past rather than being hopeful or ambitious about the future. This contrasts with the typical characteristics associated with children who often have faith in the future and are filled with dreams of what they want to be when they grow up, shifting from fantastical aspirations like being a wizard to more realistic ambitions such as becoming an engineer. Moreover, themes of childhood perception versus adult realities are further explored in literary extracts where childhood experiences are shown to shape adult life, as suggested by words like William Wordsworth's "the child is father of the man." Children's growth, development, and ultimate transformation through their lifetime are topics that influence various narratives in literature, reflecting the universal nature of changing dreams, perceptions, and hopes as one grows from a child into an adult.