not last night but the night before, also known as 'not last night and the night before,' is a children's rhyme originating from England. It tells the story of two robbers who knock on a door and tell a little white boy to "split" ("splits" in the original version).
The Verse
In the first line of the rhyme, three robbers are described as knocking on the door. These robbers have different attributes: one has a fiddle, one is drumming, and one has a pancake stuck to his backside. As the poem progresses, the robbers' personalities become more sinister. The second line introduces the little boy who answers the door. He invites the robbers in and, in response to a request to share a drink, the boy is told to "split" his mother's apple pie.
The Chant
The rhyme is followed by a playfulchant, which involves the repetition of the first line in a playful manner. This chant is likely played by children during parties or other gatherings to add humor and energy to the atmosphere.
Cultural Significance
The not last night but the night before rhyme is often seen as a humorous and somewhat childish song. It is known for its upbeat melody and playful nature. Over the years, this rhyme has become a pop culture phenomenon, inspiring artists, comedians, and musicians to create their own variations and interpretations of the song.
One artist who recorded the poem is the British band The Beatles, although they adapted the lyrics into their own song "I'm So Tired" with only slight changes to the original words. The Beatles' version became a hit single in 1965 and is still widely recognized today.
Modern Variations
Today, the not last night but the night before rhyme has evolved into a variety of modern variations. Artists such as Katy Perry, Lizzo, and The Weeknd have incorporated the original words into their tracks. These modern versions often add new lyrics or change the original message to suit contemporary sensibilities.
The rhyme's enduring popularity is likely due to its timeless themes and the simple, repetitive nature of the songs. Whether it's the original version or a modern adaptation, the not last night but the night before continues to captivate audiences around the world.
