Water Noises — Summary

When I am playing by myself, And all the boys are lost around, Then I can hear the water go; It makes a little talking sound.

Along the rocks below the tree, I see it ripple up and wink; And I can hear it saying on, "And do you think? And do you think?"

A bug shoots by that snaps and ticks, And a bird flies up beside the tree To go into the sky to sing. I hear it say, "Killdee, killdee!"

Or else a yellow cow comes down To splash a while and have a drink. But when she goes I still can hear The water say, "And do you think?"

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In “Water Noises,” a child playing alone notices the small sounds and movements of a creek or stream. With other children gone, the speaker becomes attentive: water ripples over rocks, a bug snaps by, a bird calls “Killdee,” and a cow comes to drink and splash. What stands out most is the water’s quiet, repeated question, “And do you think?” It feels like gentle, inviting company rather than noise.

The mood is calm, curious, and a little private. Being alone does not feel lonely; it opens up a space to listen closely to ordinary things. The water’s voice gives the scene a sense of wonder, as if nature is trying to share a thought with the child, leaving the reader with the same soft, wondering question.

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