The Meaning behind Where is Thumbkin?

Question

Recently, I heard this song in a kids commercial and I was wondering what are the orgins of this song, and what do they mean by "run and hide." Is there some darkness behind this kids song, like as in Ring Around the Posey. And can you tell me any other children's songs with scary double meanings?

Answer 1

The song is a word and motion song to entertain children while teaching them the parts of the hand (thumb, pointer finger, ring finger, etc.)  You put your hand behind your back to start (where is thumbkin....) and then present the Thumb (here he is.....)  Sorry, no dark mystery.

Most songs are just nonsense songs.....Scary meanings are often quite clear.  "There was an old Woman who swallowed a Fly - perhaps she'll die!"  So don't eat "c**p" when you're out of sight of your parents.......