Here's why:
* Focus on Simple Language: Silverstein's poems are renowned for their simple, direct language, often using playful rhymes and a conversational tone. This style doesn't typically lend itself to the use of onomatopoeia.
* Content of the Poem: "Sick" focuses on a child's desire to avoid school by feigning illness. The poem doesn't have any actions or sounds that would naturally call for imitative words.
Example of Onomatopoeia:
If "Sick" did use onomatopoeia, it might sound like this:
> My throat is scratchy, *cough, cough,*
> My head is throbbing, *thump, thump,*
> I think I'm getting *sicker*,
> It's time to stay in *bed, plop*.
However, the original poem doesn't include these kinds of sound words.
Instead of onomatopoeia, Silverstein uses other poetic devices like repetition ("I think I'm getting sicker...") and humor to create a memorable poem.