The Merry Heart-Shakespeare

THE MERRY HEART

Jog on, jog on the footpath way,

And merrily hent the stile-a,

A merry heart goes all the day,

Your sad tires in a mile-a!

SHAKESPEARE


Summary: 'The Merry Heart' is a short, lively poem attributed to Shakespeare that emphasizes the importance of a cheerful disposition in navigating life's journey. The poem encourages the reader to embrace a merry heart and embrace the joyous path before them. 

The opening lines urge one to continue jogging on the footpath, merrily grasping the stile, or crossing point, along the way. This imagery conveys an active and optimistic approach to life. The poem suggests that a merry heart can carry one through the entire day, filling it with happiness and contentment.

In contrast, the poem highlights the weariness that accompanies a sad or burdened heart, suggesting that it can exhaust a person's energy within a mere mile of their journey. This serves as a reminder of the negative consequences of carrying sadness, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a lighthearted and joyful demeanor.

Overall, 'The Merry Heart' encourages the reader to embrace a cheerful disposition, finding delight in life's simple pleasures. It serves as a reminder that maintaining a merry heart can bring enduring happiness and a lighter spirit throughout life's journey.

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