Poems about Little Red Riding Hood

The Tale of Little Red Riding Hood

One of the most well-known and beloved fairy tales, the story of Little Red Riding Hood has captured the imaginations of people for centuries. First published by Charles Perrault in 1697, this cautionary tale has been adapted into numerous forms of media, including poetry. Poems about Little Red Riding Hood often explore themes of innocence, danger, and the importance of listening to warnings.

Examples of Poems about Little Red Riding Hood

1. Little Red Riding Hood by Roald Dahl

In Roald Dahl's version of the classic tale, Little Red Riding Hood takes matters into her own hands by outsmarting the wolf. Dahl's whimsical and humorous take on the story turns Little Red Riding Hood into a cunning and resourceful heroine.

Little Red Riding Hood

She said, ‘But, Grandmamma, what a lovely great
furry coat you have on.’
‘That’s how I keep warm, my dear,’ she said.
‘All the better to eat you with,’ the Wolf
replied.

2. Red Hood Riding Hood Retold by Anne Sexton

Anne Sexton's poem "Red Riding Hood" delves into the darker and more disturbing aspects of the fairy tale. Sexton explores themes of sexuality, violence, and power dynamics in her retelling of Little Red Riding Hood, shedding light on the subtextual complexities of the original story.

Star and stones sparkle in the white afternoon
forest, and so simply my friend is taken in
by a wolf who will outline her life.
I would tell her, but it is more fun to let
her go on, step by step, seeing nothing.

Summary

Poems about Little Red Riding Hood offer a fresh and imaginative perspective on the classic fairy tale. Whether they highlight the bravery of the protagonist or explore the darker themes of the story, these poems allow readers to revisit and reexamine a timeless tale that continues to captivate audiences of all ages.