What Does the Little Birdie Say Poem?

The poem "What Does the Little Birdie Say?" beautifully illustrates the universal theme of growth, patience, and eventual independence through the parallel experiences of a young bird and a baby. It captures the natural yearning for freedom and the wisdom of waiting until one is strong enough to venture out.

The Little Birdie's Journey to Flight

The first part of the poem focuses on a young bird's eager desire to leave its nest and explore the world.

• The poem begins with the birdie's plea: "Let me fly, says little birdie, Mother, let me fly away." This highlights the innate urge for exploration and self-sufficiency.
• However, the wise mother bird advises caution and patience, emphasizing the importance of preparation: "Birdie, rest a little longer, Till the little wings are stronger."
• Heeding this advice, the little birdie waits: "So she rests a little longer." Only when its wings have gained sufficient strength and it is truly ready, does it finally take flight: "Then she flies away."

The Baby's Aspiration for Growth

The poem then draws a poignant parallel between the birdie's journey and a human infant's developmental stages.

• It poses a relatable question about a baby's awakening: "What does little baby say, In her bed at peep of day?"
• The answer reveals a similar, albeit metaphorical, desire for independence and action: "Baby says, like little birdie, Let me rise and fly away." This suggests that, much like the bird, a baby also possesses an inherent drive to grow, explore, and eventually achieve autonomy.

Themes of Growth and Independence

This simple yet profound poem conveys several key messages about life and development:

• Patience is Key: Both the birdie and the baby learn that growth and independence are processes that require time and development. Rushing can be detrimental, while waiting for the right moment ensures success.
• Guidance and Nurturing: The mother bird's advice is crucial for the birdie's safe and successful transition to flight. This emphasizes the vital role of parental guidance and support in helping young ones develop.
• Natural Progression: The poem highlights that the desire for freedom and the journey towards self-reliance are natural, universal stages in the cycle of life, applicable to both animals and humans.
• Metaphorical Flight: For the baby, "flying away" is a metaphor for growing up, gaining skills, and eventually becoming an independent individual capable of navigating the world on their own.

Comparing Birdie and Baby

The poem's structure clearly contrasts the initial desires with the paths taken and the eventual outcomes: