This page features a video of the poem “The Gymnastic Clock”, prescribed under the Karnataka State Syllabus for 7th Standard English Second Language. Along with its summary in three languages and transliterated songs. It serves as a valuable learning resource for students and parents, with each song accompanied by its respective lyrics for easy sing-along. The synchronized lyrics help learners follow and recite the song as it progresses, making memorization and learning by heart easier, more effective, and enjoyable.
Lyrics
English
The little clock is friends with me,
It talks as plain as plain can be,
And says, each morning as it rises,
“Now, don’t forget your exercises!
Both hands above your head, you know!
Then lower them very slowly, so;
Oh! don’t get tired and stop, that way!
I exercise like this, all day!”
Right in its face then, I say, “Pooh!
I wouldn’t boast of it, like you,
But I can swing my arms round, too!”
And so the clock then looks at me,
And I look back, and I and he
Each single morning, when we rise,
Just exercise and exercise!
It talks as plain as plain can be,
And says, each morning as it rises,
“Now, don’t forget your exercises!
Both hands above your head, you know!
Then lower them very slowly, so;
Oh! don’t get tired and stop, that way!
I exercise like this, all day!”
Right in its face then, I say, “Pooh!
I wouldn’t boast of it, like you,
But I can swing my arms round, too!”
And so the clock then looks at me,
And I look back, and I and he
Each single morning, when we rise,
Just exercise and exercise!
Summary
The poem presents a little clock as a friendly companion to the child. Every morning, the clock reminds the child not to forget to exercise. It describes simple exercises such as raising both hands and lowering them slowly. The child responds playfully and joins the clock in exercising every morning. The poem gives the message that regular exercise is a healthy and enjoyable habit.
Author
M.C Davies