While there is no specific study or research article dedicated to the origins and meaning of “Ring-a-ring o’ roses,” the subject has been discussed in a variety of academic and historical contexts. Scholars of folklore, nursery rhymes, and children’s literature frequently debate the rhyme and its likely roots as part of larger studies into children’s culture and oral traditions.
The most popular interpretation suggests that the song originated during the time of the Great Plague of London in 1665 or even the earlier Black Death. According to this theory, the lyrics describe the symptoms of the disease and the ways people tried to protect themselves from it:
- “Ring-o-ring-o roses” refers to the rosy rash that appeared on the skin of plague victims.
- “A pocket full of posies” represents the herbs and spices people carried to ward off disease or mask the smell of death and decay.
- “Ashes, ashes” (or “a-tishoo”) is thought to mimic the sound of sneezing, another symptom of the plague, or a reference to the cremation of the dead bodies.
- “We all fall down” symbolizes the inevitable death of the victims and the collapse of the dancers at the end of the game.
However, this dark interpretation has been challenged by some folklorists who argue that the rhyme appeared too late in written sources (the earliest known version dates back to 1881) and that the lyrics are too inconsistent across different versions to support the plague theory.
Other interpretations suggest that the song is simply a playful game with no hidden meaning, or that it could be related to various pagan or folk customs involving dancing, roses, or similar themes. For example, some have linked the “ring of roses” to the ancient practice of dancing around a maypole during spring festivals.
The true story behind “Ring-o-ring-o roses” remains elusive and shrouded in mystery. While the plague theory provides an intriguing and memorable explanation, it is important to consider that the song’s origins might be more innocent and related to the rich and diverse traditions of children’s games and folklore.
