Song of Becoming

As the Israel-Arab Conflict arise, a lot of people have been affected. In the poem Song of Becoming by Fadwa Tuqan, she tells a story of a bunch of boys who had a very happy childhood. The boys used to play, fly kites and laugh together. But when they grew older, their happiness were stolen from them. Their normal lives were taken away. They now became soldiers and they were fearful to many people.

Also notice that the bunch of boys mentioned in the poem didn't refer to Palestinians nor Israelites. I believe that Tuqan did not mention anything of the background of the boys since these boys can refer to both Palestinians and Israelites. They had the same childhood. They both experienced fun and play. But as they grow up, they become soldiers. Palestinian soldiers against Israelites and vice versa.

This poem conveys a sad message both to Israel and Palestine. Because of the conflict they have, many lives have changed. Many people have been affected. Many have sacrificed their lives. And it is so sad that the war can't end right away. Until when will the hardships continue? When will the fight end? Will there be someone who would give in and accept defeat? And these questions will still remain unanswered.