By subscribing to Inspiring Quotes you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Shel Silverstein’s life philosophy imbued his vast body of work. The poet, artist, playwright, bestselling author, and Grammy-winning songwriter slipped this insight into a conversation between anthropomorphized shapes in his picture book “The Missing Piece.” Published in 1976, the book follows a Pac-Man-precursing figure on an epic search for its lost segment. Upon rolling into a complementary chunk’s path, the protagonist tentatively asks, “Maybe you want to be your own piece?” The piece responds by asserting its agency. Silverstein was advocating for audiences of any age — including his then-6-year-old daughter — to build identities beyond their connections with others.
13 Romantic Quotes From Beloved Period Pieces
12 Quotes on Staying Flexible and Open-Minded
Leonardo da Vinci’s Advice for a Fulfilling Life
8 Quotes From the Trailblazing Women of the Civil Rights Movement
15 Quotes To Help You Feel Brave
16 Enduring Quotes About Everlasting Love
14 Quotes on the Meaning of Racial Equity
The Best Advice From Brené Brown
15 Life-Changing Quotes From Marcus Aurelius’ ‘Meditations’
17 Quotes To Help You Embrace Imperfection
9 Quotes That Define Intersectionality