Poetry · Chapter
Little Boy Blue explained
Little Boy Blue, lost in a wood, initially revels in his imagined kingship over nature, commanding creatures, clouds, and sunset to obey him.
What happens
Little Boy Blue, lost in a wood, initially revels in his imagined kingship over nature, commanding creatures, clouds, and sunset to obey him. When the assembled forces refuse to leave, he grows frightened and demands they take him back to his mother. After striking a defiant snake, the creatures cheer and escort him home, and Birdie Brown sings of finding earnestness in fun.
Themes in this chapter
Childhood and Innocence
Little Boy Blue's playful command over nature and his eventual return to his mother highlight the innocence and dependency of childhood.
Characters to notice
- Little Boy Blue
The protagonist who commands nature but becomes overwhelmed by his own power, ultimately seeking his mother.
- Birdie Brown
A bird who sings and guides the creatures, challenging Little Boy Blue to give purpose to his commands.
- The Wind
Responds to Little Boy Blue's summons and later returns to its own path.
- Cloud
Descends at Little Boy Blue's command, darkening the sky.
Key passages
“Little Boy Blue lost his way in a wood— Sing apples and cherries, roses and honey: He said, 'I would not go back if I could, It’s all so jolly and funny!'”
Little Boy Blue gets lost in a forest but enjoys the adventure, refusing to return.
Establishes the boy's initial delight in his newfound freedom.
“Little Boy Blue sat down on a stone, And the creatures came round him every one.”
Little Boy Blue rests on a stone as all the animals gather around him.
Illustrates his perceived authority over the natural world.
“Off with you all: take me back to my mother!”
Go away, all of you: bring me back to my mother!
Shows his fear and desire to return to safety.