The author of the poem "The Ball Poem" is John Berryman.

Introduction:
- "The Ball Poem" is a poignant and thought-provoking poem that explores the theme of loss and the fleeting nature of childhood.
- It is a part of the Class 10 English Literature syllabus and can be found in the NCERT textbook.

About the Author:
- John Berryman was an American poet and scholar, born on October 25, 1914, in McAlester, Oklahoma.
- He is considered one of the most important American poets of the 20th century and was known for his confessional style of writing.
- Berryman studied at Columbia University and later became a professor of English at the University of Minnesota.
- He received numerous awards for his poetry, including the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1965 for his collection "77 Dream Songs."
- Berryman's works often dealt with themes of personal struggle, loss, and the complexities of the human condition.

The Ball Poem:
- "The Ball Poem" is a short and impactful poem that reflects on the loss of innocence and the harsh realities of life.
- It tells the story of a young boy who loses his ball and experiences a profound sense of loss and grief.
- The poem explores the transient nature of joy and the painful process of growing up.

Key Themes:
1. Loss: The poem highlights the theme of loss, both literal and metaphorical. The boy loses his ball, symbolizing the loss of innocence and childhood.
2. Transience: The poem emphasizes the fleeting nature of happiness and childhood. The ball, a symbol of joy, is easily lost, reminding us of the impermanence of life.
3. Growing Up: The poem portrays the process of growing up and the accompanying challenges and disappointments. The boy's experience with loss marks a crucial step in his journey towards maturity.

Conclusion:
- "The Ball Poem" by John Berryman is a powerful poem that explores the theme of loss and the inevitable process of growing up.
- The author's poignant portrayal of a young boy's experience with loss resonates with readers and prompts reflection on the transient nature of joy and the bittersweet realities of life.

John berryman