"We fell asleep in one world," by Haroon Rashid has intrigued millions of social media users. Rashid's simple but powerful poem is currently exploding with popularity. It's gone viral on almost every social media platform. But why? Rashid, is an Indian author with no notable notoriety. (People do not know who he is.) He's not famous for his previous literary works. Nor is he connected to any particular celebrities. And to be honest, most people who have recited or reposted his poem, have no earthly idea who the author actually is. (Imagine hearing and seeing your words shared across humanity, credited only as the work of an unknown author from an unknown source.) Regardless of a failure in works cited, Rashid has a message that he's determined to share. He has a statement that needs to be heard. Not just for a particular gender, race, or demographic. It's something that still applies whether you're young or old . . . rich or poor . . . in America or Africa. It's a global demand and it's coming from the world. In "We fell asleep in one world," Rashid explains that while humans are quarantined in their home cages, life on the outside goes on. The world is a beautiful and magnificent place. And while enjoying its peace and beauty, the world issues a simple but very strong message to its confined inhabitants: “You are not necessary. The air, earth, water and sky without you are fine. When you come back, remember that you are my guests. Not my masters." Answer the following question by commenting on this blog post: In your personal opinion, what does or should the world's message in the poem mean to human readers? (Tip: Put on your thinking caps. Rashid recently tweeted: "In this time of not going outside, let's go a little inside." Think about that. Reflect on your current time in isolation and solitude (quarantine/shelter-in-place). Your answer to this blog should state what we need to do differently in respect to the world when our quarantine has officially ended.) |
AuthorMr. Reygan Reed is a 8th grade English Language Arts teacher at Henderson Middle School. Archives
May 2021
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