La Bergre

By Walter Crane

Ballad
    Il tait un' bergre,     Et ron, ron, ron, petit patapon;     Il tait un' bergre,     Qui gardait ses moutons,     Ron, ron,     Qui gardait ses moutons.     Elle fit un fromage,     Et ron, ron, ron, petit patapon;     Elle fit un fromage     Du lait de ses moutons,     Ron, ron,     De lait de ses moutons.     Le chat qui la regarde,     Et ron, ron, ron, petit patapon;     Le chat qui la regarde     D'un petit air fripon,     Ron, ron,     D'un petit air fripon.     Si tu y mets la patte     Et ron, ron, ron, petit patapon,     Si tu y mets la patte     Tu auras du bton,     Ron, ron,     Tu auras du bton.     Il n'y mit pas la patte,     Et ron, ron, ron, petit patapon;     Il n'y mit pas la patte,     Il y mit le menton,     Ron, ron,     Il y mit le menton.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This French poem explores the simplicity of rural life and the subtle interactions between nature's creatures. The theme of pastoral life is presented through the shepherdess and her sheep, offering an idyllic depiction of country living and self-sufficiency, whereas the sly cat introduces an element of cunning and mischief.

The poem's structure is repetitive, using the phrase "Et ron, ron, ron, petit patapon," a form of onomatopoeia suggestive of the rhythmic sounds in nature, as a refrain after each couplet. This repetition gives the poem a rhythmic quality, possibly imitating the monotonous yet comforting routine of rural life. The tone of the poem is predominantly light-hearted and playful, particularly in the interaction between the shepherdess and the mischievous cat, reinforcing the overall theme of simple, country charm.

The poem utilizes straightforward language and imagery, making it accessible and easily understood. Despite its simplicity, it effectively captures the essence of pastoral life, highlighting the harmony and occasional humor found within. The poem may also serve as a subtle reminder of the natural order, as the cat - though tempted - ultimately refrains from disturbing the shepherdess' work.

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.