Happiness (A.A. Milne)

Yes, A. A. Milne wrote Winnie-the-Pooh. He also wrote this lovely, simple poem.

Because really, "that is...that." It needs not be more complex. Happiness is a simple as having a raincoat when it is raining. I like that this poem is so short. It says what it needs to in so few words, and yet is still funny and even cute (in a non-derogatory kind of way).

This poem also shows the excellence of a good title. The poem doesn't have to be more explicit because it's already there in the title of the thing. We know what the point is, so all we need are the details. And what details! Boots! A hat! A raincoat! There is a grandness in that kind of simplicity.

I don't know if this poem ever showed up in a Winnie-the-Pooh book, but it wouldn't surprise me if it did. It totally fits the simple warmth and kindness of those characters and that world.

Favorite line: "And that/(said John)/Is/That."