Baby Song
by Alfred Tennyson
What does little birdie say,
In her nest at peep of day?
“Let me fly,” says little birdie;
“Mother, let me fly away.”
“Birdie, rest a little longer,
Till the little wings are stronger.”
So she rests a little longer,
Then she flies away.
What does little baby say,
In her bed at peep of day?
Baby says, like little birdie,
“Let me rise and fly away.”
“Baby, sleep a little longer,
Till the little limbs are stronger,”
If she sleeps a little longer,
Baby, too, shall fly away.
Illustrations by F. B. Comstock
If you enjoyed Baby Song, explore our poetry section for more timeless verses spanning childhood, reflection, and life’s many moods.
This charming poem, sometimes titled “Little Birdie” or “What Does Little Birdie Say?”, is often attributed to Alfred Tennyson. Learn more about his life and poetry.