Hush-A-

Author: Walter Crane

    Hush-a-by baby on the tree-top,
    When the wind blows the cradle will rock;
    When the bough breaks the cradle will fall--
    Down comes baby, cradle and all!
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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 poem is a classic nursery rhyme whose theme revolves around a comforting lullaby while paradoxically containing a subtle element of threat. Its structure is simple and concise, built on four lines that are designed to be easily memorable, making it accessible to children. The poem follows a traditional AABB rhyme scheme, which adds to its rhythmic and melodic nature.

However, the comforting tone is juxtaposed with the looming danger suggested by the breaking bough and the falling cradle. This contrast creates intrigue, adding depth to the poem. The use of natural elements, such as the wind and the tree, bring a sense of tranquility, but the unpredictable nature of these elements also introduces a hint of peril. The repetition of "when" creates a rhythmic pattern, while also emphasizing inevitability, suggesting that adversity is a part of life. This poem, while seemingly simple, offers a nuanced exploration of comfort, danger, and the unpredictability of life, wrapped in a rhythmic and memorable structure.

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.