Poems About Little Red Riding Hood: Exploring the Classic Fairy Tale

The timeless tale of Little Red Riding Hood has captivated readers for centuries. With its rich symbolism and cautionary themes, it comes as no surprise that many poets have been inspired to explore and reinterpret this beloved fairy tale. In this article, we will delve into a few remarkable poems that offer fresh perspectives on Little Red Riding Hood, shedding new light on its characters and underlying messages.

Poem 1: "Red" by Anne Sexton

Anne Sexton, known for her dark and introspective poetry, reimagines Little Red Riding Hood in her poem "Red." With her characteristic rawness, Sexton delves into the psychological depths of the story, exposing its darker implications. Here is an excerpt:

What a good girl! What a fine smart girl!
That path was certainly right.
How well this has worked!
I am nobody's meat.


Sexton's poem challenges the traditional narrative of Little Red Riding Hood, empowering the protagonist and asserting her agency. It forces readers to question societal expectations and gender roles.

Poem 2: "The Wolf's Postscript to 'Little Red Riding Hood'" by Agha Shahid Ali

Agha Shahid Ali, a master of poetic imagery, offers a unique perspective in his poem "The Wolf's Postscript to 'Little Red Riding Hood.'" In this poignant piece, the wolf reflects on his actions, revealing a sense of remorse and longing for redemption. Here is an excerpt:

You know I had a cause.
There's were always two ways to go.
And one way was mine.
And your grandmother sang blond as the sun,
but she was German and taught me the word wolf.


Ali's poem humanizes the wolf, exploring themes of identity, cultural influence, and the complexities of choice. It encourages readers to question their preconceived notions and empathize with the supposed villain of the story.

Poem 3: "Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf" by Roald Dahl

Roald Dahl, a beloved children's author, adds his whimsical touch to the tale in his poem "Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf." Dahl's poem combines humor and mischief, subverting expectations and infusing the story with a delightful twist. Here is an excerpt:

But this little girl was un wise.
She took a wholly wrong route
And came to the point where the path went right
But she didn't notice that tiny sign
And she went on with her journey instead
And she walked with her head in the air
And she got there all right in the end.


Dahl's playful poem reminds us to stay vigilant and not let our own stubbornness blind us to the dangers that may lie ahead.

These poems offer just a glimpse of the diverse range of interpretations that Little Red Riding Hood has inspired in poets. From Sexton's introspection to Ali's introspective apology and Dahl's mischievous twist, each poet brings their unique voice and perspective to this timeless tale. Through their words, they remind us that stories, like Little Red Riding Hood, continue to evolve and resonate with us in new and unexpected ways.