Psychoanalyzing Little Jack Horner

 

 

 Psychoanalyzing Little Jack Horner

Little Jack Horner Sat in a corner 

Eating his Christmas pie; 

He put in his thumb 

pulled out a plum,

 And said, What a good boy am I! 

While a seemingly simple nursery rhyme, "Little Jack Horner" can be interpreted through a psychoanalytic lens to reveal some interesting possibilities:

1. Self-Interest and Reward:

    The poem highlights Jack's focus on personal gain. He sits alone (in a corner) enjoying his pie (eating) and takes immediate action to secure something he desires (putting in his thumb).
    Pulling out a plum is seen as a reward for his actions, leading him to boast ("What a good boy am I!"). This could represent a focus on immediate gratification and self-praise for fulfilling desires.

2. Forbidden Fruit and Guilt:

    The act of reaching into the pie with his thumb could be symbolic of a forbidden action. Pies were often expensive treats, and taking something from it without permission could be seen as a transgression.
    However, there's no mention of punishment or shame. Jack simply celebrates his success, suggesting a lack of guilt or consequence for his actions.