LISTEN TO THE MUSTN’TS (Where the Sidewalk Ends) by Shel Silverstein

Paraphrase= Silverstein wishes children not to lose their faith because of rules and limitations. Instead, they should believe in capacities, possibilities, beliefs, and the power of hope even when others say something can't be done.

Attitude= I feel defiant, hopeful, and empowering when I read this poem. Shel S. tests the voice of limit like the “mustn’ts,” “don’ts,” and “won’ts” with a kind but strong way that encourages capability and dream.

Shift= As it starts with a list of what to not do (“mustn'ts,” “don'ts,” “won'ts”) that shows societal limits. The shift comes in the final line, which sends the message to one of domination.

Opinion= This poem is a powerful solution to bad things and ending. Here are some reasons:

 It begins by stating all the “don’ts” children often hear, which many readers can relate to.

 The final line states the message, giving hope and possibility “Anything can be.”

 It’s expressively normal for both children and adults, remembering us not to lose our sense of possible.

 The conciseness makes its message even more outstanding and memorable.

Recommendation= This poem makes sense like a lightning pin of confidence in a world full of rules. I love how Silverstein changes a list of limits into a assembling cry for possible, all in just a few lines. It’s the kind of poem that makes you sit up normally and believe in your own potential again. I would recommend it to a friend because it will help him/her have more faith in him/herself and start having self-hope and high capacities in his/her abilities.