9th
Shel Silverstein
by Zach Loavenbruck
Though I thoroughly enjoy the historic novels of Gore Vidal and the humorous creations of David Sedaris, I am also a big fan of the timeless poetry and stories of Shel Silverstein. Among my favorite works of his are The Giving Tree, Where the Sidewalk Ends, The Missing Piece, A Light in the Attic, and Falling Up. Although originally intended for children, these best-selling books transcend age groups and have touched the hearts of thousands of people around the world. Born September 25, 1930, in Chicago, Illinois, Shel Silverstein started drawing during his adolescent years. By his early twenties, while serving in the Korean War, Silverstein was creating cartoons for Pacific Stars and Stripes, an independently operated newspaper dedicated to reporting the activities of the military. Soon after completing his military service, Shel Silverstein released Take Ten, a compilation of cartoons he’d penned for Pacific Stars and Stripes. The first eight or so years of Shel Silverstein’s career as a cartoonist were dedicated to adult fiction, including a multitude of cartoons drawn for Playboy magazine. Shel Silverstein’s first children’s book, titled Uncle Shelby’s Story of Lafacadio: The Lion Who Shot Back, was published in 1963. The Giving Tree, published a year later, narrates the story of a boy and a tree. In his earlier years, the boy enjoys climbing the tree, resting under it, and eating its apples. As he grows up, the boy uses more and more of the tree until it is just a stump. All the while, the tree gives itself unconditionally to the boy. This exploration of the parent-child dynamic between the tree and the boy strikes a chord with adults and children alike. Another of Shel Silverstein’s children’s books, The Missing Piece, was published in 1976. Following a circle-shaped character with a missing wedge, the tale chronicles the adventures he experiences while seeking his missing part. Once the piece finds his missing wedge and attaches himself to it, he realizes his wholeness hinders him in some activities he previously enjoyed. The character decides to part with his piece because of this, and on his merry way he goes. The story examines definitions and perceptions of happiness and fulfillment found through the pursuit of one’s goals. Where the Sidewalk Ends made its debut in 1974, A Light in the Attic in 1981, and Falling Up in 1996. All three collections are brimming with poetry about childhood themes and whimsical stories intended for the delight of fanciful imaginations. Shel Silverstein’s poetry and storytelling have charmed the public for decades and will probably continue to do so for decades more. I know I’ll continue reading them.
