Little Jenny Wren
Little Jenny Wren fell sick,
Upon a time;
In came Robin Redbreast
And brought her cake and wine.
"Eat well of my cake, Jenny,
Drink well of my wine."
"Thank you, Robin, kindly,
You shall be mine."
Jenny she got well,
And stood upon her feet,
And told Robin plainly
She loved him not a bit.
Robin being angry,
Hopped upon a twig,
Saying, "Out upon you! Fie upon you!
Bold-faced jig!"
Little Jenny Wren belongs to the long English tradition of bird-rhyme storytelling. Wrens and robins show up in countless tales, usually standing in for people—tiny feuds, courtships, and petty arguments played out in the hedgerows. Here, Robin shows up like a devoted suitor, bringing food and fussing over Jenny as if she were royalty. But when she springs back to health, she decides she doesn’t want him after all.
The humor comes from how human the birds sound. Robin storms off in dramatic style, calling her a “bold-faced jig,” which is basically an old-fashioned way of saying she’s far too cheeky for him. The rhyme is light, playful, and faintly moral: kindness doesn’t guarantee affection, and love doesn’t always land where you expect it.
1. A simple retelling
A wren named Jenny becomes sick, and a robin brings her food and wine to help her recover. Once she feels better, she refuses his affection, and he leaves upset.
2. The characters
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Main characters: Jenny Wren and Robin Redbreast — both birds acting like people
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Tone: Their behavior is human-like, especially in the courtship and argument.
3. Setting
Outdoors — likely a countryside hedge, tree, or garden where wrens and robins would meet.
4. Theme
Courtship, disappointment, and how feelings aren’t always returned.
5. Moral
Affection can’t be forced — kindness doesn’t guarantee love.
