“The Rebel” by D.J. Enright

Introduction:

• The poem describes a person known as “the rebel” who always does the opposite of what others do.
• This person is characterized by their constant contrarian behavior and refusal to conform to societal norms.

Main Points:

1. Opposing Hairstyles:

   • When everyone has short hair, the rebel grows their hair long.
   • When everyone has long hair, the rebel cuts their hair short.

2. Classroom Behavior:

   • When everyone talks during the lesson, the rebel remains silent.
   • When everyone is silent during the lesson, the rebel causes a disturbance.

3. Clothing Choices:

   • When everyone wears a uniform, the rebel wears fantastic clothes.
   • When everyone wears fantastic clothes, the rebel dresses soberly.

4. Pet Preferences:

   • In a group of dog lovers, the rebel prefers cats.
   • In a group of cat lovers, the rebel speaks well of dogs.

5. Weather Preferences:

   • When everyone praises the sun, the rebel speaks about the need for rain.
   • When everyone enjoys the rain, the rebel misses the sun.

6. Social Engagements:

   • When everyone goes to a meeting, the rebel stays home and reads a book.
   • When everyone stays home and reads a book, the rebel goes to the meeting.

7. Responses to Offers:

   • When everyone says, “Yes please,” the rebel says, “No thank you.”
   • When everyone says, “No thank you,” the rebel says, “Yes please.”

8. Value of Rebels:

   • The poet acknowledges that it is good to have rebels in society.
   • However, being a rebel oneself may not be very enjoyable.

Themes and Messages:

• Nonconformity: The poem celebrates the presence of individuals who challenge societal norms and expectations by doing the opposite of what is considered typical or acceptable.
• Individuality: The rebel is portrayed as someone who values their individuality and uniqueness, refusing to follow the crowd.
• Balance in Society: The poem suggests that having rebels is beneficial as they bring diversity and different perspectives, although it might not always be easy or pleasant to be a rebel.

Comprehension Check:

1. Identify the Rebel:

   • Think of someone who always disagrees or does the opposite of what is expected. This person can be described as a “rebel.”

2. Examples of Rebel Behavior:

   • The poem gives various examples of how a rebel acts differently in terms of appearance, behavior, preferences, and social interactions.

3. Discussing the Role of Rebels:

   • Discuss why it is important to have rebels in society and what challenges they might face.