As an expert in literature and folklore, I can provide a detailed explanation of the character who is famously known for being fast asleep under a haystack. The phrase you've mentioned is part of a traditional nursery rhyme known as "Little Boy Blue." This rhyme has been a part of English-speaking children's literature for centuries and has seen numerous variations over time. The character in question is Little Boy Blue himself, who is depicted as a young shepherd boy tasked with watching over sheep.

The nursery rhyme "Little Boy Blue" goes as follows:

```
Little Boy Blue,
Come blow your horn.
The sheep's in the meadow,
The cow's in the corn.
Where is the boy
Who looks after the sheep?
He's under the haystack, fast asleep.
Will you wake him?
No, not I,
For if I do,
He's sure to cry.
```

The rhyme paints a picture of a tranquil rural scene where a young boy is supposed to be tending to his flock. However, instead of diligently watching the sheep, he is found to be napping under a haystack. The final lines of the rhyme suggest that the boy is not to be disturbed from his slumber, as it's implied that he might become upset if woken.

The origins of "Little Boy Blue" are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been a part of oral tradition for a long time before being put into written form. The rhyme has been used to teach children about responsibility, as well as to entertain with its simple and catchy rhythm.

The imagery of the boy sleeping under a haystack has been interpreted in various ways. Some see it as a symbol of innocence and the carefree nature of childhood, while others view it as a reminder of the consequences of neglecting one's duties. The boy's role as a shepherd also carries biblical connotations, as shepherds are often depicted as protectors and leaders, which could add a layer of moral instruction to the rhyme.

Throughout the years, "Little Boy Blue" has been adapted into various forms, including songs, stories, and even animated films. The character has become a recognizable figure in children's culture, and the rhyme itself is often used to evoke a sense of nostalgia and simplicity.

In conclusion, Little Boy Blue is a character from a classic nursery rhyme who is depicted as being fast asleep under a haystack. The rhyme serves as a teaching tool, a source of entertainment, and a cultural touchstone that has been passed down through generations.

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Little boy blue, Come blow your horn, The sheep's in the meadow, The cow's in the corn.read more >>