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"A clever set of lyrics in
"For want of a nail"
encouraging children to
apply logical progression to
the consequences of their
actions. "For want of a
nail" is often used to
gently chastise a child
whilst explaining the
possible events that may
follow a thoughtless act.
The History of Obligatory
Archery Practise!
The references to
horses, riders, kingdoms and
battles in "For want of a
nail" indicate the English
origins of the rhyme. One of
the English Kings did not
leave anything to chance! In
1363, to ensure the
continued safety of the
realm, King Edward III
commanded the obligatory
practice of archery on
Sundays and holidays! The
earliest known written
version of the rhyme is in
John Gower's "Confesio
Amantis" dated approximately
1390.
"For want of a nail"
American usage
Benjamin Franklin
included a version of the
rhyme in his Poor Richard's
Almanack when America and
England were on opposite
sides.
During World War II,
this verse was framed and
hung on the wall of the
Anglo-American Supply
Headquarters in London,
England. |
