Courses
Courses for Kids
Free study material
Offline Centres
More
Store Icon
Store

What does the poem Whatif talk about? Give a few examples of some of the child's worries or cynical fears

seo-qna
SearchIcon
Answer
VerifiedVerified
383.7k+ views
Hint: This poem is written in the voice and perspective of a youngster. The narrator is concerned about whether his teeth will grow straight and whether he will get green hairs on his chest. The narrator's wild imagination demonstrates that he is still a youngster with a very limited way of thinking.

Complete answer:
The poet has created a poem that allows individuals from all walks of life to experience the commonality of "night"-time overthinking in a way that displays connection and allows us to find humour in the middle of the irritation through this poetry. Despite the difficulties, he unites and entertains in this way.

Fears and concerns are common among children. It's impossible for them to think in a rational or reasonable manner. The speaker goes through a long series of strange events or accidents. In his sleep, these fears tormented him. He pondered what would happen if he lost his ability to talk, was assaulted, or became ill and died.

Furthermore, he could fail or miss the test, his hair could turn green, he could be struck by lightning, a war may break out, and his parents could split. He was back to his old self by dawn.

Note: 'Whatif,' by Shel Silverstein, is a lighthearted portrayal of Silverstein's worries, challenges, and uncertainties that torment him at "night," and the presentation's organisation defies logic and reason. Silverstein has expressed a level of stress and rapidity in their evolution by referring to the things that he couldn't get out of his head as "What-ifs."