Smartyfair
Wise sayings
If at first you don't succeed, try, try again.
William Edward Hickson1803–1870 · educator · 1800s EnglandWilliam Edward Hickson was an English educator who campaigned to make singing lessons part of every child's schooling, earning him the nickname "the father of English school music." He is best remembered for popularizing the encouraging rhyme "If at first you don't succeed, try, try again." He also edited an influential journal and wrote about improving schools for ordinary children.1 quote
Source foundPerseverance1800s

In plain words

If something doesn't work, keep trying.

Look up a word

Where these words come from

How sure this is
85% sureThese words were traced back to where they first appeared. That source is listed below.
What turned up
Written by William Edward Hickson: 'Perseverance, or Try Again,' The Singing Master (1836) — the tune book itself prints 'The words by W. E. Hickson.' Refrain adapted by Thomas H. Palmer, The Teacher's Manual (Boston, 1840). Long circulated as an anonymous proverb.
Work
The Singing Master — 'Perseverance, or Try Again'
Occasion
1836 · a moral song written for schoolchildren to sing
Sources checked
  • en.wikipedia.orgChecked using claude-sonnet-5, 21 August 2026Hickson's 1836 original rhyme; Palmer's 1840 US adaptation
  • archive.orgChecked using claude-fable-5, 21 August 2026The Singing Master No. 1 (First Class Tune Book), 1838 printing, song No. 4 'Perseverance, or Try Again', credited 'The words by W. E. Hickson' — contains ''Tis a lesson you should heed... If, at first, you don't succeed' with the try-again refrain (sung chorus repeats 'Try, try, try again')

Nothing made from these words yet — Storyfaire is where they get made.

More on perseverance

It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.ConfuciusNature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.Lao TzuSlow and steady wins the race.AesopPatience is the key to relief.Arabic proverbDrops of water hollow out a stone.OvidFew things are impossible to diligence and skill.Samuel Johnson

More wise sayings

See all
The early bird catches the worm.English proverbWhere there's a will, there's a way.English proverbNo pain, no gain.English proverbPractice makes perfect.English proverbRome wasn't built in a day.English proverbLook before you leap.English proverb

Leave without saving?

You have a change that hasn’t been saved yet. Clicking out of the box saves it — closing now throws that change away.