The rhyme is thought by some commentators to have originated as a counting-out rhyme. Westmorland shepherds in the nineteenth century used the numbers Hevera (8), Devera (9) and Dick (10) which are from the language Cumbric. The rhyme is thought to have been based on the astronomical clock at Exeter Cathedral. OR Hickory, Dickory, Dock: The Meaning Behind a Traditional Nursery Rhyme It almost certainly refers to the short reign as Lord Protector of Oliver Cromwell’s son Richard Hickory, Dickory, Dock: The Meaning Behind a Traditional Nursery Rhyme
Is the mouse running up the clock symbolising Tempus Fugit in the short reign as Lord Protector of Oliver Cromwell’s son Richard? Is a counting out rhyme not for whittling people down?