Shel Silverstein

Captain Hook

Captain Hook - meaning Summary

Playful Portrait of Self-restraint

This short, playful poem lists the everyday precautions Captain Hook must take because of his hook—avoiding scratching, nose-picking, rough handshakes, and simple tasks like opening cans or turning pages. The speaker catalogs these limitations with childlike humor to highlight how a single physical difference shapes daily life and social interaction. The closing line flips the tone into relief and gentle superiority: the speaker is glad not to be Captain Hook.

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Captain Hook must remember Not to scratch his toes. Captain Hook must watch out And never pick his nose. Captain Hook must be gentle When he shakes your hand. Captain Hook must be careful Openin' sardine cans And playing tag and pouring tea And turnin' pages of his book. Lots of folks I'm glad I ain't-- But mostly Captain Hook!

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