Where the Sidewalk Ends is a collection of quirky and imaginative poems by Shel Silverstein. The poems are accompanied by illustrations that capture the often silly, peculiar nature of Silverstein's witty words. On the surface, this book appeals to children's youthful, curious, and adventurous character. Despite this, adults can still find themselves engrossed in the pages of poetry since this book also appeals to their inner child.
The main theme is implied by its title. The title symbolizes the end of the real world as the reader knows it and the beginning of a journey through other spaces and times that oppose what's normal. The sidewalk represents the mundane, rigid, and concrete nature of the real world. Furthermore, it serves as an obstacle to the colorful, creative spirit of children, unable to bend to their inquisitive whims. Therefore, the sidewalk must end, at least in the reader's mind.
Silverstein gives the reader permission to go beyond the sidewalk and explore unknown, somewhat taboo territories. This is exemplified with the book's first poem. "Invitation" welcomes the reader into a space fit for dreamers, wishers, hope-ers, and pretenders, among other unconventional identities. In other words, those who want to get away from the status quo of a formulaic, routine world are invited to break the rules and defy its gravity.
Also, Silverstein figuratively creates a "safe space" for the reader with this poem. The reader won't be viewed as a weirdo or a nuisance for exploring (and enjoying) the depth and breadth of poetry designed to challenge one's mental paradigm. This is the perfect poem to set the stage for the literary magic that is to come.
This book ends with a hopeful poem that nicely wraps up the overall message Silverstein provides readers. "The Search" describes a person looking for a pot of gold "where the rainbow ends." This final poem is an allegory shedding light on a satisfying journey of finding hidden treasures in unexpected, extraordinary places. The pot of gold collectively represents the gems of wisdom and ingenuity that enriches one's worldview, character, and relationships. In addition, the rainbow represents a milestone reached by the protagonist.
Yet the journey doesn't stop at the rainbow's end. The last line of the poem asks an important question: "What do I search for now?" This is probably the most important line of the poem. It is meant to ignite continued curiosity and creativity within the reader, for the sake of advancing self-discovery and personal growth.
