"Let Dogs Delight to Bark and Bite," by Isaac Watts, is a timeless poem with a simple but important message for children. It explains that some animals, like dogs, bears, and lions, might bark, bite, or growl because that's how they’re made. But people, and especially children, are different. We have gentle hands that aren’t meant for fighting or hurting others. Instead, we can choose to be kind and control our tempers.
Let dogs delight to bark and bite,
For God hath made them so;
Let bears and lions growl and fight,
For ’tis their nature too.
But, children, you should never let
Such angry passions rise;
Your little hands were never made
To tear each other’s eyes.
Isaac Watts.
This poem gives children a gentle reminder that while animals might bark, bite, or growl, people have a choice. Dogs, bears, and lions can’t help acting this way—it’s just part of who they are. But people, especially kids, don’t need to act like that. Instead, we’re meant to use our hands for friendly things, not fighting.
Imagine a world where everyone fought like animals! It would be chaotic. That’s why the poet, Isaac Watts, tells kids not to give in to “angry passions.” When you feel upset, it’s better to take a deep breath and think before you act. Being kind and patient makes us happier and keeps everyone around us safe.
This poem is a fun way to think about kindness. By showing how different people are from barking dogs or growling bears, it helps kids understand that they can choose to be gentle, even when they’re upset. So next time you feel like barking back, remember: we’re made for love, not for fighting!