History
The song “Pop Goes the Weasel” is an extremely popular children’s song that is not only a traditional nursery rhyme but also a fun singing game for children that encourages participation. While varying versions of the lyrics are known, originally it was a piece of dance music that later had the words we know today added to it. It may be known as a children’s song today, but in the past, it would be performed at noble events like royal balls. Not only did people dance to it, the song would also be performed on stage in front of an audience. Soon after it gained popularity without lyrics, words were added and the song was featured in a pamphlet from the Church of England in the year 1855.
Variations
Throughout the years, the lyrics have changed considerably. Many times, it is based on regional differences and cultural differences that have changed over time. Throughout it all though, the well-known phrase about a weasel popping has remained quite consistent. The most popular and version of today in the United States begins with the phrase “All around the mulberry bush” and was recorded in 1914. Prior to that, the song opened with the phrase “All around the cobbler’s house”. In both versions, the following lyrics mention a monkey chasing something, generally either the people or the weasel. The song is sung in many different countries around the world and each one’s lyrics vary slightly from other versions.
As a Game
Even today, the song can frequently be heard in preschools and kindergarten classrooms around the world. It is a fun game that children have been enjoying for generations. In order to play, children form rings and dance around while the lyrics are being sung or played. They dance and sing until the lyrics about the weasel are recited at which point the children must quickly become part of a new ring. If too slow, they risk facing elimination as the last person to join a new ring is out of the game. Once eliminated from the game, they are considered one of the “weasels” and must sit out until the next game. It’s a very similar game to musical chairs, a game that consists of children circling around chairs until the music stops. When the music stops, the children must quickly try to find an open seat. There is always one less chair than there are participants and the person who can’t find a chair is eliminated from the game.
In Popular Culture
While most people know of the song as a kid’s game, it has also been featured in many different movies, TV shows, and other works. One of the most recent uses was in the popular series “Once Upon a Time”. Under interrogation, the protagonist of the show starts singing the song. Instead of the traditional meaning, in her case POP meant to “Protect Other People”.