All the Woulda-Coulda-Shouldas
Layin’ in the sun,
Talkin’ ’bout the things
They woulda coulda shoulda done…
But those Woulda-Coulda-Shouldas
All ran away and hid
From one little Did.
I really like this poem. It is very short but has a nice rhythm to it. I think all the stressed syllables give it that rhythm. Even though it is a child’s poem published in children’s books, I think it sends a strong message to all. It is very inspirational to all to do things and not ponder what should have been. I think every one has said “Woulda-coulda-shoulda” and I find it interesting he uses slang in this piece. The phrase is what makes it relatable to people of all ages.
The poem is very fun. I love the metaphor he uses. He uses the slang as a group of subjects. I’m not sure, but I think this is a case of personification. He gives action to a common phrase. I like how when I read it, I get a sense that the phrase is a group of children lounging in the sun complaining about what they should have done. Then I think of the “did” subject chasing them away. It is almost like the “woulda-coulda-shouldas” are ashamed when the “did” shows up. I think this is a great analogy for children to get the right message of positive and negative actions.
annejb Said:
on October 6, 2008 at 11:33 am
I too love the rhythm of this poem. The slang very much relates it to young people. The fact that it is short also helps to get the point across without leaving the reader wondering if there is a deeper meaning. I love poems that are straight to the point. Despite all of that I think this poem is very deep, in its meaning. Many people do this very thing in their lives all the time. They live their lives dreaming about all the things they wish they had the courage to do, and thinking to themselves that maybe someday they actually will. It also proves the point that people see the things they want as fearful, and so instead of doing them, they are afraid of the people that do it for them. Very good poem.
secretkeeper11 Said:
on October 11, 2008 at 1:59 pm
Sometimes I think it takes the veneer of childrens work to say things that might not otherwise be said. Length isn’t the benchmark for what makes a good poem, because sometimes the writer says what needs to be said in just a handful of lines.
nightwrighter Said:
on October 13, 2008 at 6:05 am
The woulda coulda shouldas!!!! I have to say, this poem made me crack a smile. Its such a cute little poem lol. I definetly know what Silverstein means by “woulda coulda shouldas.” Theres too many woulda coulda shouldas complaining about things they woulda coulda shoulda done. It drives me crazy. Its a great message to little kids because the more you try to do the more you start to believe in yourself. Then you realize you can do whatever you set your mind to. Great blog!
poetryprof Said:
on October 14, 2008 at 12:37 pm
Silverstein is a wonderful poet!