Once Upon a Time – Gabriel Okara

Brief Summary of 

Once Upon a Time – Gabriel Okara

‘Once Upon a Time’ is written by a Nigerian poet, Gabriel Okara. 

The poet reminisces about a time when people were sincere and caring. He speaks regretfully about the present time. He says that people have lost innocence and openness. Honesty in expressing emotions is very rare nowadays. People don’t let us see what they might be really feeling. People are now dishonest and insincere, saying things they do not mean.

The poet tells us that he has learnt to deal with the present day insincere world by becoming just like all other people. He says that he has learnt to wear many faces. These faces are false faces showing no real emotions. The poet wants to be as innocent and sincere as his young son.

In this poem, Okara condemns the hypocrisy of adults. He portrays childhood as a time for honest laughter and spontaneity.  He wants to unlearn artificial living and relearn innocent and truthful living. (158 words)