A most famous poem in the 1806 collection Rhymes for the Nursery by Ann and Jane Taylor is “The Star”, commonly known today as Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.
Jane and her sister Ann, English poets, have often been confused, partly because their early works were published together. Ann Taylor’s son, Josiah Gilbert, wrote in her biography, “Two little poems – My Mother, and Twinkle, twinkle, little Star– are perhaps more frequently quoted than any; the first, a lyric of life, was by Ann, the second, of nature, by Jane; and they illustrate this difference between the sisters.”
Jane Taylor is best known for the lyrics of “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star,” which were set to a French tune and later arranged as variations by Mozart.
Twinkle, twinkle, little star,
How I wonder what you are!
Up above the world so high,
Like a diamond in the sky.
When the blazing sun is gone,
When he nothing shines upon,
Then you show your little light,
Twinkle, twinkle, all the night.
Then the trav’ller in the dark,
Thanks you for your tiny spark,
He could not see which way to go,
If you did not twinkle so.
In the dark blue sky you keep,
And often thro’ my curtains peep,
For you never shut your eye,
Till the sun is in the sky.
‘Tis your bright and tiny spark,
Lights the trav’ller in the dark:
Tho’ I know not what you are,
Twinkle, twinkle, little star.
Look for this recommendations and other books at Knox County Online Library or your local independent bookstore each week.
This weekly column delves into the enchanting world of children’s literature, spotlighting both beloved classics and emerging voices. I am excited to share my love of children’s literature with families seeking ways to encourage their young ones to develop a love of reading as well. Send comments or questions to Susan Espiritu at susan@knoxtntoday.com.
