I'd maintain its equally true for beginners. If you want to make a simple graphical game, learning SDL or something similar from the get-go is perfectly do-able. The idea that you must start at the command line is not valid. The fact that it is what most of us did is irrelevant.
Who said they must start at command line? My whole point and stance is that command line isn't a waste to learn. I personally tell people to do console, then 2D, then 3D. I recommend terminal so the beginner can have intimate one on one time with just the language and nothing else to distract them from it. Then I tell them to move onto 2D that way they are familiar with the language and able to focus on learning the API of the library while focusing on their game. Then 3D just because it is the next logical step.
The important part for beginners and vets alike is to have a specific goal, then gather the knowledge to achieve it. If that goal includes getting some graphics on the screen, why not start there? What's the difference between learning the SDL API and learning the standard streams API?
The only difference here is our matter of opinion. For me, learning a programming language is like learning to speak a language. I wouldn't write a Spanish novel without learning the language properly and I don't think a person should jump headlong into making a complex program without learning the language first. You, and others, have made it clear they think otherwise and that is fine as not every method works for everyone.