I'm in a few books right now with my kids; however, this week I decided to pick up a book of poems I hadn't read in a looooooong time. Shel Silverstein. I read from his books as a 5th-grade teacher, I've read a few poems with my kids, but not page-by-page to really take in each poem in this collection.
I wanted to respond to one poem in particular. It's a short one so I'll type it out:
When I'm gone
When I'm gone, what will you do?
Who will write and draw for you?
Someone smarter--someone new?
Someone better--maybe you!
I actually can't recall ever reading this poem, although it's likely I have. It. hit. me. As a mom and a daughter. Our kids grow up. We do everything for them, then, as they get older, they get more independent. Our goal as parents is to raise kind, well-functioning citizens of this crazy world. We do these things and teach our lessons to transfer as much knowledge and inspiration as we can to our children. Although some readers may see this perspective as the author afraid the person might make the wrong decision so he/she should just take the lead him/herself. I see this as encouragement from a parent to a child or a teacher to a student. You become better, smarter, stronger, and more independent with time. I see this as a reminder to live life when I'm no longer in the picture or living in this world.
This poem is reflective in a positive light. It's a good reminder. You got this kid and I will encourage and support you along the way.
What is your interpretation of this perspective?
I think I may make a better attempt and the poetry genre this semester. Hope you all had a fabulous week stealing many moments to read!
