The Poppy

By Jane Taylor 1783–1824 Jane Taylor

High on a bright and sunny bed

A scarlet poppy grew

And up it held its staring head,

And thrust it full in view.

Yet no attention did it win,

By all these efforts made,

And less unwelcome had it been

In some retired shade.

Although within its scarlet breast

No sweet perfume was found,

It seemed to think itself the best

Of all the flowers round,

From this I may a hint obtain

And take great care indeed,

Lest I appear as pert and vain

As does this gaudy weed.

Biography

British engraver, poet, and novelist Jane Taylor was born in London to Ann Martin Taylor and Isaac Taylor, an engraver, painter, and minister. Taylor frequently collaborated with her sister Ann, and the two were some of the earliest known children’s poets. A few of their poems, including “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” (first published as “The Star”), later became nursery rhymes. The pair’s publications include Original Poems . . .

Continue reading this biography