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Nursery Rhyme & History
The old nursery rhyme 'Cackle, cackle, Mother Goose' clearly describes to a child the various usage that a goose has to offer - but why Mother Goose? The Origins of Mother Goose and the Identity of Mother Goose gives some answers to this question! The phrase 'Mother Goose' probably originates from the 1600's - which coincides with the era of the great witch hunts. Comparisons can be made between Mother Goose the popular conception of a witch during this period! The old illustration below of Mother Goose depicts an old crone, or witch, flying on a goose (instead of a broomstick). The first line of the Nursery Rhyme is 'Cackle, cackle, Mother Goose' - descriptions of witches generally include reference to her 'cackle'. This word originally described the noise that a goose would make. More interesting information regarding the connection between Mother Goose and the witch can be via the above links.

Cackle, Cackle, Mother Goose
Nursery Rhyme lyrics, origins and history

Cackle, cackle, Mother Goose,
Have you any feathers loose?
Truly have I, pretty fellow,
Half enough to fill a pillow.
Here are quills, take one or two,
And down to make a bed for you.

Cackle, Cackle, Mother Goose
Nursery Rhyme lyrics, origins and history