Ye Song Of Sixpence

Author: Walter Crane

1.
    Sing a song of sixpence, a pocket fall of rye;
    Four and twenty blackbirds baked in a pie;
    When the pie was open the birds began to sing,
    Wasn't that a dainty dish to set before the king?

2.
    The king was in his counting-house counting out his money;
    The queen was in the parlour eating bread and honey;
    The maid was in the garden hanging out her clothes,
    When up came a blackbird and pecked off her nose.
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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 nursery rhyme employs a simple AABB rhyme scheme, reflecting the standard structure of such verses designed for children. The tone is whimsical, with a slightly macabre twist, common in traditional nursery rhymes. The poem's overarching theme is one of contrast, juxtaposing the mundane with the surreal, the ordinary with the absurd.

In the first stanza, the imagery of singing blackbirds baked into a pie creates an unexpected, fantastical scenario. This fanciful element is presented in a matter-of-fact manner, underscoring the poem's playful tone. In the second stanza, the focus shifts to mundane activities of the king, queen, and maid, only for the absurd to intrude once again when a blackbird pecks off the maid's nose. This sudden, strange incident brings a touch of dark humor to the poem, highlighting the unpredictability and inherent whimsy of life. The inclusion of royalty and a servant also suggests a subtle commentary on social hierarchy. The poem's playful language and absurd events create an engaging experience for readers, reminding us of the whimsy and unpredictability that can be found even within the seemingly ordinary.

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.