The Whistler

A poem by Nixon Waterman to remind us that our attitude determines our happiness. And if we all approached life with a more positive attitude the world would be a better place.




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The Whistler
by Nixon Waterman


A boy I know who's never sad,
And come what may he's always glad
Though trouble comes, he sings a merry lay,
So blithe and happy gladdens all the day
With his "Heigh-ho! laughing as I go,"
He whistles care away.

If all the world were like this boy,
We'd banish cares that now annoy; -
O never let a trouble come to stay,
So let us laugh our troubles all away
With a "Heigh-ho! laughing as we go."
We'll whistle the care away.



Analysis of The Poem:
"The Whistler" by Nixon Waterman celebrates the uplifting spirit of a young boy who faces life's challenges with unwavering optimism and joy. Through simple yet powerful language, Waterman portrays the boy as a symbol of resilience and positivity.

The poem opens with a vivid description of the boy's demeanor: he is characterized as never sad, always glad, and able to maintain his cheerful disposition regardless of the circumstances. Even when trouble arises, he responds with a merry tune, spreading happiness to those around him. The refrain "Heigh-ho! laughing as I go," emphasizes the boy's carefree attitude and his ability to whistle away worries.

Waterman contrasts the boy's approach to life with the common experience of facing troubles and worries. He suggests that if everyone adopted the boy's outlook, the world would be a much brighter place, free from the burdens that often weigh people down. The repetition of the phrase "let us laugh our troubles all away" reinforces the poem's central theme of overcoming adversity through laughter and positivity.

In conclusion, "The Whistler" serves as a reminder of the transformative power of optimism in navigating life's challenges. Through the portrayal of a carefree boy who whistles away his troubles, Waterman encourages readers to adopt a similar mindset, embracing joy and laughter as antidotes to hardship.


Bio of Nixon Waterman:
Born on November 12, 1859, in Newark, Illinois, Nixon Waterman was a prolific poet whose verses uplifted countless hearts. Not only did his stirring poems resonate deeply, but many were also transformed into melodic tunes. In addition to his poetic endeavors, Waterman also worked in journalism, where he gleaned profound insights into life's complexities, which he artfully rendered in his verses. He died on September 1, 1944, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration.



Read more of Nixon Waterman Poems to Inspire



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