Fear of Growing Up: Capturing the Trepidation in Poetic Verses

Growing up is an inevitable part of life, but it can also be a daunting journey filled with uncertainties and fears. The transition from childhood to adulthood often brings forth a sense of trepidation and anxiety. Through the power of poetry, many writers have expressed their fears and vulnerabilities surrounding the process of growing up. In this article, we will explore a collection of evocative poems that encapsulate the essence of being scared of growing up.

Poem 1: "The Child is Father of the Man" by Gerard Manley Hopkins

The Child is Father of the Man;
And I could wish my days to be
Bound each to each by natural piety.

Gerard Manley Hopkins beautifully captures the essence of being scared of growing up in his poem "The Child is Father of the Man." This line suggests that our childhood experiences and fears shape us as adults. The poem reflects upon the nostalgia for simpler, carefree days, and the apprehension of losing that innocence as we mature. It reminds us of the importance of cherishing our youthful spirit while embracing the uncertainties of adulthood.

Poem 2: "Growing Up" by Lang Leav

We were such a small and tender thing
and the world was cruel and cold
and we did not know why
but we grew anyway.

Lang Leav, a contemporary poet, explores the fear of growing up in her poem "Growing Up." Leav beautifully depicts the vulnerability of navigating a harsh world while feeling insufficiently prepared. The poem encapsulates the overwhelming nature of the unknown, yet it also conveys the resilience and strength that emerge as we journey through life.

Poem 3: "When You Are Old" by W.B. Yeats

How many loved your moments of glad grace,
And loved your beauty with love false or true;
But one man loved the pilgrim soul in you,
And loved the sorrows of your changing face.

W.B. Yeats' poem "When You Are Old" explores the fear of growing old and reflects upon the choices made in life. While not directly addressing the fear of growing up, it highlights the underlying anxiety of losing one's youthfulness and the fear of being forgotten. The poem serves as a poignant reminder to cherish our fleeting moments and embrace the uncertainties that come with growing up.

Poem 4: "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" by T.S. Eliot

Do I dare disturb the universe?
In a minute there is time
For decisions and revisions which a minute will reverse.

T.S. Eliot's "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" delves into the fear of taking risks and the anxiety that accompanies growing up. The poem captures the internal struggle of a protagonist who questions whether he should disrupt the status quo and venture into the unknown. Eliot's evocative words resonate with those who fear the consequences of growing up and the potential regrets that may follow.

Growing up can be a tumultuous journey filled with uncertainty and fear. These poems offer glimpses into the emotions and anxieties surrounding the process of maturing. From Gerard Manley Hopkins' reflections on childhood innocence to T.S. Eliot's apprehension of disturbing the universe, these poets have eloquently expressed the fears and vulnerabilities associated with growing up. Through their words, we are reminded that it is okay to be scared, yet we must also embrace the journey and savor the moments along the way.