DLTK's Nursery Rhymes for Kids
A Wise Old Owl
A wise
old owl sat in an oak,
The more he heard, the less he spoke;
The less he spoke, the more he heard;
Why aren't we all like that wise old bird?
Crafts to go with the poem, A Wise Old Owl:
On-Line Games and Puzzles:
History of "A Wise Old Owl":
"A Wise Old Owl" is a nursery rhyme that has been passed down through generations, offering a simple yet profound message about the virtues of listening more and speaking less.
Summary and Analysis
- Summary: The rhyme describes a wise old owl sitting quietly in an oak tree. The more the owl hears, the less it speaks; conversely, the less it speaks, the more it hears. The poem concludes by suggesting that we should emulate the owl's wisdom.
- Themes:
- Wisdom and Silence: The poem emphasizes the importance of listening over speaking, suggesting that true wisdom comes from observing and absorbing information rather than constantly talking.
- Reflection and Self-Control: It encourages readers to practice self-control and reflection, highlighting the benefits of being thoughtful and attentive.
Historical Context:
The rhyme is believed to have originated around World War II, often attributed to an anonymous author. It has been used to teach children the value of listening and the concept that being quiet can be more beneficial than speaking without thought.