The voice that speaks inside...

We’ve been reading Shel Silverstein a ton with our children lately. Born in the 1930s, Silverstein wore many hats – poet, author, musician, cartoonist, screenwriter – but he is most known for his timeless children’s books. He grew up in Logan Square, Chicago, and was drafted into the US Army at the age of 20, serving in both Korea and Japan.

Silverstein began drawing at 7, and attributes his success and style to not having other cartoonists he looked up to. He created his own renderings, not following a particular path, and his cartoons were first published in Roosevelt University, and then during his time in the army. Upon his return, he started writing poetry, recording music, and at the urging of a book editor at Harper & Row, he (reluctantly!) started writing children’s books. His most popular book, The Giving Tree, was initially rejected by publishers before becoming one of the best children’s books of all time. In his later years, he chose to live in privacy, refusing interviews and tours, living his final years in Key West, Florida.

What has always struck me about Silverstein’s work (at least his children’s work), is how incredibly playful and unique they are – perhaps precisely because he never aimed or looked up to another author as a guide. It’s counterintuitive – we always assume that the best and brightest of this world have mentors, have teachers, and have role models who shape them and guide them to reaching their full potential. But Silverstein’s history tells us that this isn’t always the case – that creativity can come from within, and that individuality is cultivated by fierce reflection and hard work with your own self. Perhaps it’s best said in his own words:

There is a voice inside of you

That whispers all day long,

"I feel this is right for me,

I know that this is wrong."

No teacher, preacher, parent, friend

Or wise man can decide

What's right for you--just listen to

The voice that speaks inside.”

As our Impact Network scholars continue this journey during these uncertain times, my hope is that they are all learning to cultivate this voice inside to help guide them.

-Reshma