The story of Jack the Giant Killer

Is something of an ancient thriller

 

It seems young Jack possessed four prizes

That came in separate forms and sizes.

This legend has a Gallic source...

(That's source - and not French sauce, of course!)

 

He had a cloak to hide him from other eyes,

A perfect sort of self-disguise;

Add to that shoes none could match,

Which when worn, no feet could catch.

 

Then there was a thinking cap

Which, when placed upon his nap,

Told him all he wished to know...

He only needed to think...and lo!

 

Finally, there was a magic sword

That no foe could ever afford

To take a chance with its razor blade

That sliced through any substance made.

ORIGIN

If you think I'm spinning you a line

I refer you to William Mapp, a feller

Who, they say, died in 1209

And pinched it from some French tale-teller.

NB

On some quest, I suggest, these tales were told -

When damsels were distressed and knights were bold;

Long before the advent of video and cable

Folk were enthralled by legends, lore and fable.

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