The poem begins with the three boys getting ready for bed. Wynken (the oldest) is the "watcher," Blynken (the middle child) is the "nicker," and Nod (the youngest) is the "dreamer." As they drift off to sleep, the north wind whisks them and their wooden shoe away on an extraordinary journey.
Sailing across the sky, they encounter a host of fantastical sights, including the Old Moon who winks at them, a purple cow, and a sea of stars that they pluck and turn into marbles. They meet a group of elves who sing and dance, and a giant friendly fish named the Squarks that takes them for a ride.
Throughout the adventure, the boys remain blissfully unaware of their journey, as if everything is happening within their dreams.
Eventually, the boys return home before sunrise. Their mother finds them nestled together in their bed, fast asleep, unaware of the wondrous adventure they've just had during the night.
"Wynken, Blynken, and Nod" is a beloved children's poem for its enchanting imagery, playful language, and sweet dreamlike atmosphere. It continues to capture the imaginations of young readers, transporting them to a realm of wonder and adventure in the realm of dreams.