Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed judges, and fellow debaters, I stand before you to argue against the motion that "Childhood is the best phase of life." While it is tempting to romanticize childhood as a carefree, blissful time, it is essential to acknowledge the limitations and challenges that come with it.
Firstly, childhood is marked by dependency. Children rely heavily on adults for their basic needs, and this dependency can lead to feelings of powerlessness and frustration. They lack the autonomy and freedom that adulthood brings, which enables individuals to make choices and pursue their own goals.
Secondly, childhood is not immune to difficulties. It can be a time of vulnerability, both physically and emotionally. Bullying, peer pressure, and the struggle to fit in can be incredibly distressing experiences for many children. Moreover, children can face health issues, family problems, and trauma, which can mar their supposedly idyllic existence.
Furthermore, childhood does not prepare individuals adequately for the challenges of adulthood. The absence of real-world responsibilities and decision-making can lead to a lack of critical life skills. As children grow, they must grapple with the harsh realities of life, and the transition can be overwhelming and disorienting.
Lastly, the idea of childhood as the best phase of life is subjective. What may be the best phase for one person can be entirely different for another. Some individuals thrive in adulthood, finding fulfillment in their careers, relationships, and personal growth.
In conclusion, childhood may hold moments of joy and innocence, but it also comes with significant limitations and challenges. To assert that it is unequivocally the best phase of life oversimplifies the complexities of human existence. Adulthood, with its autonomy, growth opportunities, and the ability to make meaningful choices, offers a well-rounded and fulfilling life experience.
Thank you everyone for listening to me so patiently.
SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS
Question l: What according to the poem, is involved in the process growing up?
Answer. According to the poem, the loss of childhood is involved in the process of growing up. This loss is compensated by some gains which come with adolescence. These are: increase in understanding, power of rational thinking and discrimination as well as a sense of individuality and self-confidence.
Question 2: What are the poet's feelings towards childhood?
Answer. The poet regards childhood as an important stage in the process of growing up. Childhood is a period of make-belief. Children readily accept whatever the elders say. The poet does not feel any regret or sense of loss on losing his childhood.
Question 3: What did the speaker learn about the existence of Heaven and Hell?
Answer. As the speaker grew older, he acquired reasoning power. He realized that Hell and Heaven could not be found in Geography books or Atlas. Since they could not be located anywhere in the world map, he concluded that they did not exist. He would believe only what he could see and find.
Question 4: How did the speaker realise the hypocrisy of the adults?
Answer. The speaker noticed a wide gulf between what adults appeared to be and what they actually were in real life. There was apparent contradiction between their words and deeds. They talked of love and advised others to love, but they never acted lovingly.
Question 5: How did the realization of being the master of his own mind helped him?
Answer. The reatization that he was the master of his own mind, and could use it in any way he liked, filled him with self-confidence. He could now think independently and need not repeat parrot like thoughts of others.
LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTION
Question: Is independent thinking a step towards adulthood? If yes, then how? Explain with reference to the poem ‘Childhood’.
Or
Markus Natten, though showing disapproval regarding the behavior of adults, also raises a very important point, that of independent thinking and individuality. Do you agree that independent thinking and individuality make us what we are? Elaborate in the context of the poem ‘Childhood’.
Answer: In Markus Natten's poem "Childhood," the poet indeed emphasizes the idea of independent thinking and individuality as essential elements that shape who we are. Throughout the poem, Natten expresses his disapproval of the behavior of adults who conform to societal norms and lose touch with their true selves.
Independent thinking and individuality are vital aspects of personal growth and self-discovery. They allow individuals to form their unique perspectives, make choices based on their values, and express themselves authentically. In the context of the poem, Natten appears to long for the innocence and unfiltered individuality of childhood, where one's thoughts and actions are untainted by societal expectations.
Childhood is often seen as a time when children are more in touch with their true selves, exploring their creativity, curiosity, and unique perspectives without the burden of conformity. Natten's lamentation over the loss of this purity in adulthood underscores the importance of independent thinking and individuality in defining our identities.
In summary, independent thinking and individuality are indeed crucial in shaping who we are. They enable us to break free from societal constraints and discover our true selves, much like the innocence and individuality of childhood that Markus Natten mourns in his poem.
