Jane Taylor

Jane Taylor was an English poet and children's author of the early nineteenth century. Her poetry is known for its gentle moral themes and memorable rhymes, including the timeless nursery rhyme "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star." Biography ↓More ↓

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Jane Taylor

The Apple-Tree

Old John had an apple-tree, healthy and green, Which bore the best codlins that ever were seen, So juicy, so mellow, and red; And when they were ripe, he disposed of his store, To children or any who pass'd by his door, To buy him a morsel of bread. Little Dick, his next neighbour, one often might see, With longing eye viewing this fine apple-tree, And wishing a codlin might fall: One day as he stood in the heat of the sun, He began thinking whether he might not take one, And then he look'd over the wall. And as he again cast his eye on the tree, He said to himself, "Oh, how nice they would be, So cool and refreshing to-day! The tree is so full, and one only I'll take,

Jane Taylor

The Good-Natured Girls

Two good little children, named Mary and Ann, Both happily live, as good girls always can; And though they are not either sullen or mute, They seldom or never are heard to dispute. If one wants a thing that the other would like Well,what do they do? Must they quarrel and strike? No, each is so willing to give up her own, That such disagreements are there never known. If one of them happens to have something nice, Directly she offers her sister a slice; And never, like some greedy children, would try To eat in a corner with nobody by! When papa or mamma has a job to be done; These good little children immediately run; Nor dispute whether this or the other should go,

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Little Girls Must Not Fret

What is it that makes little Emily cry? Come then, let mamma wipe the tear from her eye: There -- lay down your head on my bosom -- that's right, And now tell mamma what's the matter to-night.

What! Emmy is sleepy, and tired with play? Come, Betty, make haste then, and fetch her away; But do not be fretful, my darling; you know Mamma cannot love little girls that are so.

She shall soon go to bed and forget it all there Ah! here's her sweet smile come again, I declare: That's right, for I thought you quite naughty before. Good night, my dear child, but don't fret any more.

The Holidays

"Ah! don't you remember, 'tis almost December, And soon will the holidays come; Oh, 'twill be so funny, I've plenty of money, I'll buy me a sword and a drum. "

Thus said little Harry, unwilling to tarry, Impatient from school to depart; But we shall discover, this holiday lover Knew little what was in his heart.

For when on returning, he gave up his learning, Away from his sums and his books, Though playthings surrounded, and sweetmeats abounded, Chagrin still appear'd in his looks.

Though first they delighted, his toys were now slighted, And thrown away out of his sight; He spent every morning in stretching and yawning, Yet went to bed weary at night.

He had not that treasure which really makes pleasure, (A secret discover'd by few). You'll take it for granted, more playthings he wanted; Oh naught was something to do.

We must have employment to give us enjoyment And pass the time cheerfully away; And study and reading give pleasure, exceeding The pleasures of toys and of play.

To school now returningto study and learning With eagerness Harry applied; He felt no aversion to books or exertion, Nor yet for the holidays sigh'd.

Biography

Jane Taylor was an English poet, essayist, and children's author active in the early nineteenth century. She frequently collaborated with her sister Ann, producing enduring collections for young readers. Their volumes "Original Poems for Infant Minds" and "Rhymes for the Nursery" were widely popular. Taylor's verse is characterized by clarity, gentle morality, and a musical quality that appeals to children. Nature imagery and simple, heartfelt language recur throughout her work. Her most famous poem, "The Star," is known globally through the opening line "Twinkle, twinkle, little star." Beyond poetry, she contributed prose essays and edited pieces for publications such as "The Youth's Magazine." Taylor's compositions helped establish a distinctly modern voice in children's literature, moving away from purely didactic writing toward more whimsical and memorable verse. Her influence persisted long after her lifetime, with her lyrics remaining a staple of early childhood education. Despite her early death, her literary legacy is secured by the universal appeal of her best-known poem.

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