Happy Birthday, A.A.!

Today in London in 1882 AA Milne was born. Author of over 60 "serious" books, all eminently forgettable (and forgotten), his legacy is the four children's books he wrote - two stories, two poetry collections - especially those about Christopher Robin and his animal friends.

I remember (language geek that I am) the first time I realized that Eeyore's name (he's my favorite!) was what a Cockney donkey says: "hee-haw" with dropped H's and that intrusive R at the end!

"Good morning, Eeyore," said Pooh.
"Good morning, Pooh Bear," said Eeyore gloomily. "If it is a good morning, which I doubt," said he.
"Why, what's the matter?"
"Nothing, Pooh Bear, nothing. We can't all, and some of us don't. That's all there is to it."
"Can't all what?" said Pooh, rubbing his nose.
"Gaiety. Song-and-dance. Here we go round the mulberry bush."



Here are Christopher Robin's original toys:


And a poem, Rice Pudding:

What is the matter with Mary Jane?
She's crying with all her might and main,
And she won't eat her dinner - rice pudding again -
What is the matter with Mary Jane?

What is the matter with Mary Jane?
I've promised her dolls and a daisy-chain,
And a book about animals - all in vain -
What is the matter with Mary Jane?

What is the matter with Mary Jane?
She's perfectly well, and she hasn't a pain;
But, look at her, now she's beginning again! -
What is the matter with Mary Jane?

What is the matter with Mary Jane?
I've promised her sweets and a ride in the train,
And I've begged her to stop for a bit and explain -
What is the matter with Mary Jane?

What is the matter with Mary Jane?
She's perfectly well and she hasn't a pain,
And it's lovely rice pudding for dinner again!
What is the matter with Mary Jane?