Shel Silverstein was born in Chicago, Illinois on September 25, 1930. Silverstein is best known as the author of iconic books of prose and poetry for young readers. His immensely popular poetry collections are Where the Sidewalk Ends, a 1974 Michigan Young Readers Award winner; A Light in the Attic, recipient of the School Library Journal Best Books Award in 1982. Silverstein illustrated all of his books and is considered not only a poet but a cartoonist. His works are characterized by a mixing of the sly and the serious, the macabre, and the silly. His unique imagination and bold brand of humor is beloved by countless adults and children throughout the world.
Prevalent Literary Themes: youth/childhood, exploration, nature
Prevalent Literary Devices: assonance, alliteration, rhyme scheme, simile
When matched to Shel Silverstein, it means that similarities have been found between your poetic style and the themes and literary techniques typically seen in works by this famous poet. For example, you might use alliteration and strong assonance the same way that Silverstein does. Recognizing these similarities is important because it gives you information about the history of your poetic style, which poets might inspire you, and what writing techniques you should try next.
Which Writing Techniques Should You Try Next?
Try using simile and rhyme scheme more often. You might also like experimenting with sound and rhythm to create a light and appealing tone.
Make sure to check out poets.org for more information!