A young girl looking at the swimming swan

Swan Swam Over the Sea

Swan swam over the sea,
Swim, swan, swim!
Swan swam back again,
Well swum, swan!

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Posted in All Rhymes, Animals, Mother Goose Classics, Nature & Seasons, Songs & Verses

Tagged sea, swan, swimming

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Meaning

This simple rhyme celebrates the graceful movement of a swan swimming over the sea and returning safely. The repetition emphasizes the swan’s elegance and endurance, offering a soothing, rhythmic image ideal for children’s recitation and learning. It evokes themes of nature, perseverance, and gentle encouragement.

Origin

The rhyme is a traditional English-language nursery rhyme and folk song, featured in collections dating back to the early 20th century. It was popularized in works such as “The Real Mother Goose” (1916) and “The Little Mother Goose” (1912) with well-known illustrations.

Time Period

Early 20th century, with roots in English folk tradition.

Why It Became Popular

The rhyme’s repetitive structure and natural imagery make it memorable and soothing. Its gentle pace and focus on a beautiful bird in motion appeal to children’s love of animals and nature.

Structure and Style

Meter: Simple and flowing rhythm
Rhyme Scheme: ABCB
Line Count: Four lines
Style Notes: Descriptive, repetitive, lullaby-like

Themes

Nature and animals
Grace and movement
Encouragement and praise
Repetition and recall

Language Notes

Uses the gentle repetition of “swim” and “swan” to create musicality, with “well swum” providing positive reinforcement.

Moral or Lesson

Celebrates perseverance and accomplishment, encouraging children to appreciate determination and grace.

Historical or Cultural Notes

Included in classic Mother Goose collections with iconic illustrations, the rhyme reflects early 20th-century educational values emphasizing nature observation and simple language for children.

Notable Variants

Some versions use different verbs or add lines describing the swan’s surroundings, but the core rhyme remains focused on the swan’s swim.

Appearances in Media or Literature

Featured in nursery rhyme anthologies, children’s song collections, and educational materials discussing English folk traditions and animal-themed learning.

Suggested Activities

Sing-Along: Use the rhythm for group singing and movement imitation of a swimming swan.
Nature Walk: Encourage observation of swans or other waterfowl in local parks.
Drawing: Illustrate the swan swimming across the sea and returning.
Storytelling: Create extended stories about the swan’s adventure across the sea.

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