Circuit Breaker – a poem

When Singapore exited the circuit breaker period, P1 student Sargam Modak was so thrilled, she composed a poem (with a little editing help from her mother).

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Circuit Breaker (June 2020)

“I didn’t like this circuit breaker

It is a playground and swimming pool taker

I could no more travel in buses

All it felt like were some curses

All I did was stay at home

And it was boring being alone
 

But staying at home was a lot of fun

As we gobbled up cakes and buns

Birthdays, picnics there were none

But family time was so much fun

We could go out but with masks

Oh God, it felt like such a task
 

Home based learning started at 9

And so I always woke up on time

Seeing my teacher on screen was exciting

But I would enjoy more in school; reading and writing

I have been waiting to go back to school

I promise I would follow the safe distancing rules”

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Meet the author: Sargam Modak. She is in Primary 1, and she loves to read and write. In fact, her father, Mr Manoj Modak says that she has more story books at home than toys. “Her favourite books are by Enid Blyton because they are full of wonderful characters, magical themes and imaginary places.”

This poem gives Sargam’s perspective on life during Home-Based Learning (HBL) and the circuit breaker period. Mr Modak says, “Her mother has been instrumental in encouraging Sargam to pursue her creativity, including poetry writing.”

Besides following safe distancing rules, Sargam tells us that she also promises to continue the good habits she has developed during HBL, including waking up on time and doing homework punctually.

She says, “I really want to resume a normal life with my friends. I want to play with them, eat together in the canteen, and learn new things from my classroom rather than on the computer.”