The Good-Natured Girls

Read 'The Good-Natured Girls' by 'Jane Taylor' and provide your summary and literary analysis in the comments section below.

The Good-Natured Girls by Jane Taylor

 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,
They would be ashamed to behave themselves so! 

Whatever occurs, in their work or their play, 
They are willing to yield, and give up their own way: 
Then now let us try their example to mind, 
And always, like them, be obliging and kind.

Form: Didactic Comments

Comments About This Poem

Share your interpretation, favorite passage, or thoughts about this famous poem. Please provide an in-depth and meaningful comment.

  • What do you think the poet was trying to say?
  • Which line had the biggest impact on you?
  • How does this poem relate to modern life?
  • What literary devices did you notice?
No comments have been posted yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace