One of the favorite poems for children is “Where the Sidewalk Ends”, written by author Shel Silverstein. The poem is featured in his book of the same name published in 1974.
The poem talks about a place where simple things stop happening and extraordinary things begin. The poem appeals to both children and grown-ups because of its simple language and clear illustrations, ensuring its lasting place in storytelling.
There is a place where the sidewalk ends
And before the street begins,
And there the grass grows soft and white,
And there the sun burns crimson bright,
And there the moon-bird rests from his flight
To cool in the peppermint wind.
Let us leave this place where the smoke blows black
And the dark street winds and bends.
Past the pits where the asphalt flowers grow
We shall walk with a walk that is measured and slow,
And watch where the chalk-white arrows go
To the place where the sidewalk ends.
Yes we'll walk with a walk that is measured and slow,
And we'll go where the chalk-white arrows go,
For the children, they mark, and the children, they know
The place where the sidewalk ends.
The poem was written by Shel Silverstein.
The poem was first published in 1974.
The poem explores the theme of escaping from the harshness of reality to a more whimsical and peaceful place.
The poem uses vivid imagery such as soft white grass, crimson bright sun, and peppermint wind to create a magical and inviting world.
Its simple language, imaginative scenes, and relatable themes make it engaging and easy for children to enjoy and understand.
It symbolizes a place of innocence, creativity, and freedom away from the constraints and darkness of the real world.
The journey is described as a walk that is "measured and slow," following chalk-white arrows to a peaceful and inviting destination.
The poem suggests that children have a natural ability to see and understand magical places that adults might overlook, emphasizing the importance of preserving childlike wonder and imagination.
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