Ding Dong Bell

Author: Walter Crane

    Ding dong bell!
    Pussy's in the well!
    Who put her in?
    Little Tommy Lin.
    Who pulled her out?
    Little Tommy Stout.
    What a naughty boy was that
    To drown poor pussy-cat,
    Who ne'er did any harm,
    But killed all the mice in father's barn.
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Type of Poem: Ballad

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

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Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This seemingly childish rhyme carries a more grave undertone, as it explores themes of cruelty, innocence, and justice. The narrative is quite simple: a boy maliciously throws a cat into a well, only for another to rescue it. However, the underlying message is far from simplistic. It is a cautionary tale that admonishes harmful actions, while highlighting the importance of bravery and kindness.

The poem uses a simple AABB rhyme scheme, enhancing its sing-song quality and making the darker theme more digestible for younger audiences. The dual character roles of "Little Tommy Lin" and "Little Tommy Stout" also serve to illustrate the consequences of actions and the value of good deeds. The use of onomatopoeia in the opening line, "Ding dong bell," sets a playful tone that skillfully contrasts with the serious narrative.

Meanwhile, the cat is portrayed as an innocent victim, enhancing the emotional impact of the poem. The final lines emphasize the cat’s utility in a farm setting, thereby adding a layer of practicality that further condemns Tommy Lin's actions. This poem is a reflective piece that uses its simple structure and playful rhythm to convey a deep, moral lesson about the importance of treating all creatures with kindness and respect.

Understanding Ballads

A ballad is a form of verse, often a narrative set to music, that has been a cornerstone of storytelling across various cultures. Traditionally passed down orally, ballads are known for their rhythmic structure and often tell tales of love, adventure, and heroism.

Ballads are characterized by their strong rhythm and repetition, making them both memorable and engaging. Here are some defining features:

  • Narrative Structure: Ballads typically tell a story, often a dramatic or emotional tale that unfolds in a straightforward, chronological order.
  • Quatrain Stanzas: Most ballads are composed of quatrains (four-line stanzas) with a rhyme scheme of ABAB or ABCB, which adds to the musicality of the verse.
  • Repetition: Refrains or repeated lines are common in ballads, helping to emphasize key themes or emotions and making the ballad easier to remember.
  • Oral Tradition: Many ballads originated from oral traditions, which means they were passed down through generations by word of mouth before being written down.

From medieval minstrels to contemporary songwriters, ballads have continued to evolve, remaining a beloved form of expression that captures the human experience in a way that is both poetic and accessible.