Poet of the poem "An Elementary School Classroom in a Slum"

The poet of the poem "An Elementary School Classroom in a Slum" is Stephen Spender.

Explanation of the poem

The poem "An Elementary School Classroom in a Slum" by Stephen Spender is a powerful and thought-provoking representation of the contrast between the privileged and underprivileged in society. It paints a vivid picture of the conditions in which children from slums attend school and the challenges they face in receiving an education.

The poem begins with a description of the classroom in the slum, which is small and cramped, with broken windows and peeling walls. The children are described as being "fragile" and "thin," with "hollow" eyes and "listless" faces. The teacher is trying his best to engage the children in learning, but the conditions are so poor that it is difficult for them to focus.

The poem then takes a more political turn, as the poet questions why these children are forced to live in such poverty and why they are denied the same opportunities as children from more affluent backgrounds. He suggests that the government is to blame for the conditions in which these children live, and that they are being denied their basic human rights.

The poem ends on a note of despair, as the poet suggests that these children are doomed to a life of poverty and hardship, simply because of the circumstances of their birth. It is a powerful reminder of the inequalities that exist in our society and the urgent need for change.

Overall, "An Elementary School Classroom in a Slum" is a deeply moving and thought-provoking poem that shines a light on the harsh realities of life for many children in our world today.