Naar bed, naar bed, zei Duimelot
We have a finger naming rhyme in Dutch of which there are many versions.
"One would start with the thumb, then the index finger and so on. The names reflect the names/description/function of the fingers and as you know not everything looks great when translated word for word without being put in certain context, but I'll try to explain..." -Francisca
Naar bed, naar bed, zei Duimelot
To Bed, To Bed, said Duimelot
Finger Naming Rhyme
Finger Naming Rhyme
(Dutch)
(English)
1. Naar bed, naar bed, zei Duimelot.
2. Eerst nog wat eten, zei Likkepot.
3. Waar zal ik het halen, zei Langejan.
4. Uit grootmoeder's kastje, zei Ringeling
5. Dat zal ik verklappen, zei het kleine ding!
1. To bed, to bed, said Duimelot.
2. Let's eat something first, said Likkepot.
3. Where should I get it, said Langejan.
4. From grandmother's cabinet, said Ringeling.
5. I'm going to tell on you, said the little thing!
Notes
Notes on each line of text from Francisca:
1. The name "Duimelot" is derived from the Dutch word for thumb: DUIM.
2. I'm thinking that the name Likkepot stems from many children using their index finger when say... stealing some peanut butter straight from the jar or something and then licking it off.
3. Re. Langejan - Jan is a very common name in Dutch (mostly used for men and boys, although occasionally it may be a girl's/woman's name) and the word "lange" in this context translates into "tall" referring to the middle finger being the longest/tallest - Lange Jan - Jan who is tall.
4. Re. Ringeling - The Dutch word for one's ring finger is ringvinger so that simply reflects its function.
5. "Little thing" simply refers to the size of the pinky finger.
Many thanks to F.S. for sharing this rhyme with us with the illustration, translation and mp3 recording!
