Tell Me I Poem By Afrin Ansari
Tell Me
From the moment we breathe our first light,
Soft cries in the dark, the world quiet and bright.
We are handed rules in lullabies and smiles,
Wishing we knew how these tiny footsteps have to cross a journey of miles.
We were all taught to speak up.
And now we are told to shut up.
“Sit straight, laugh less, and don’t make a sound”
The world whispers, early all around.
In classrooms bright, with boards and bells,
We learn the stories that everyone tells.
From this place called school, the comparison starts.
We memorize rules, smile through lessons , but forget our real, fragile parts.
On the internet we see others laughing, and having fun,
While we struggle to get that one task done.
People around will tell you to be yourself.
Then ask questions if you ask for help.
Growing up is a process.
But the world expects it to happen in one night.
How can I grow so easily,
While I’m still holding my inner child so tight?
So tell me world, before I try,
To chase the years hurry by.
Must growing up mean letting go,
Of the child I once used to know.
FAQs – Tell Me | Poem
1. What is the poem “Tell Me” about?
“Tell Me” explores the pressures of growing up, following social expectations, and trying to hold on to one’s childhood identity.
2. What is the main theme of the poem?
The main themes are growing up, self-expression, comparison, social expectations, and preserving one’s inner child.
3. What does the line “We were all taught to speak up. And now we are told to shut up” mean?
It highlights the contradiction between being encouraged to express ourselves and later being expected to remain quiet and conform.
4. How does the poem describe school life?
The poem presents school as a place where children learn lessons and rules while also experiencing comparison and pressure to fit in.
5. What role does social media play in the poem?
Social media represents the pressure of comparing our lives with others, especially when other people’s happiness appears effortless.
6. Why does the poet mention the “inner child”?
The inner child represents the innocence, emotions, curiosity, and individuality that can sometimes get lost as we grow older.
7. What does “Growing up is a process” suggest?
It suggests that growing up takes time and that people should not be expected to mature instantly or have everything figured out.
8. What question does the poem ask about growing up?
The poem asks whether becoming an adult really means letting go of the child we once were.
9. What message does “Tell Me” convey?
The poem encourages readers to question unrealistic expectations and reminds them that growing up does not have to mean losing their individuality or childhood spirit.
10. Who can relate to this poem?
Children, teenagers, and young adults who have experienced expectations, comparison, or the challenges of growing up may find the poem relatable.
This article is published by Bookosmia, India’s #1 publisher for and by young people. Bookosmia publishes stories, books, podcasts, events, TED-Ed talks, workshops, bedtime stories and more related to kids and young adults.
Photo Credit – AI generated images from Chat GPT and Magic Media from Canva .Gemini AI and jetpack Image Editor
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