Schlaf, Kindlein, Schlaf

By Walter Crane

Ballad
    Schlaf, Kindlein, schlaf,     Draussen steht ein Schaf,     Stsst sich an ein em Steinelein,     That ihm weh das Beinelein,     Schlaf, Kindlein, schlaf,     Schlaf, Kindlein, schlaf.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem, a traditional German lullaby, is both a simple and complex work. On the surface, it is a soothing children's rhyme designed to lull a child to sleep. The repeated refrain, "Schlaf, Kindlein, schlaf," which translates as "Sleep, little child, sleep," provides a comforting and rhythmic pattern, often associated with lullabies.

The poem explores the themes of comfort, safety, and the vulnerability of the innocent. This is exemplified by the reference to the sheep outside, a common symbol of innocence and vulnerability. Interestingly, the sheep is depicted as hurting its leg on a small stone, adding a slight touch of melancholy and discomfort to the otherwise soothing tone. This could be interpreted as an allegory of the challenges that childhood innocence must eventually face in the harsh realities of the world, a subtle warning wrapped in a soothing lullaby. Structurally, the poem follows a simple and repetitive rhythm and rhyme scheme, adding to its calming effect. Despite its brevity, the poem manages to convey a range of emotions, from comfort and security to slight unease, reflecting the complexities of childhood and life itself.

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.