Lullaby
By C. J. Dennis
You are much too big to dandle,
And I will not leave the candle.
Go to sleep.
You are growing naughty, rather,
And I'll have to speak to father.
Go to sleep!
If you're good I shall not tell, then.
Oh, a story? Very well, then.
Once upon a time, a king, named Crawley Creep,
Had a very lovely daughter....
You don't want a drink of water!
Go to sleep! There! There! Go to sleep.
Poem Analysis:
C. J. Dennis’ poem Lullaby presents a humorous and realistic portrayal of a parent attempting to put a child to sleep. Through its rhythmic structure, simple diction, and conversational tone, the poem captures the struggles of bedtime routines while simultaneously conveying warmth and parental affection.
Theme and Meaning
The central theme of Lullaby revolves around parental patience and the playful resistance of children at bedtime. The speaker, likely a mother or father, tries to coax a restless child into sleep. However, the child continuously finds excuses to stay awake, such as asking for a story or a drink of water. This reflects a common experience in parenting, where children often resist sleep despite their apparent tiredness. The poem’s lighthearted approach suggests a blend of exasperation and endearment, emphasizing the tender relationship between parent and child.
Tone and Mood
The poem’s tone is affectionate yet mildly exasperated, reflecting a realistic bedtime struggle. The repetition of the phrase “Go to sleep” conveys the speaker’s persistence, while the occasional rhetorical questions and exclamations reveal a mix of amusement and mild frustration. The overall mood is warm and relatable, inviting readers—especially parents—to recognize their own experiences in the narrative.
Structure and Literary Devices
Dennis employs a simple, rhythmic structure that mimics the soothing cadence of a lullaby. The poem is written in rhyming couplets, enhancing its musicality and making it feel like a bedtime chant. Some key literary devices used in the poem include:
- Repetition: The recurring phrase “Go to sleep” reinforces the main action and urgency of the poem, emphasizing the speaker’s determination.
- Direct Address: The speaker directly talks to the child, creating an intimate and engaging dialogue that mirrors real-life interactions.
- Irony: There is an amusing irony in the fact that, despite the soothing nature of a lullaby, the child remains restless and full of excuses.
- Imagery: The poem briefly shifts into a fairytale-like storytelling mode with “Once upon a time, a king, named Crawley Creep,” hinting at the child’s attempt to prolong bedtime by requesting a story.
Interpretation and Significance
Beyond its surface-level humor, Lullaby touches upon the universal theme of childhood innocence and the small, everyday struggles of family life. The parent’s attempt to maintain authority is met with clever tactics from the child, highlighting the playful yet affectionate dynamic between them. The poem also reflects the timeless nature of bedtime battles, making it a relatable and endearing piece for parents and caregivers.
C. J. Dennis’ Lullaby is a charming and humorous exploration of the bedtime routine, capturing the nuances of parental love, patience, and mild frustration. Through its rhythmic flow, repetition, and lighthearted tone, the poem presents an entertaining yet deeply relatable slice of family life. Ultimately, Lullaby serves as both a humorous anecdote and a heartwarming reflection on the enduring bond between parent and child.