The construction “happy the [noun] who [verb]” represents a literary and somewhat archaic phrasing emphasizing the blessed or fortunate state of the noun. Consider the example, “Happy the child who learns early the value of kindness.” This structure elevates the characteristic of learning kindness early in life, positioning it as a source of happiness for the child. It highlights the importance of the subsequent clause.
This phrasing adds a sense of gravitas and poetic elegance to a sentence, setting it apart from more common constructions like “The child who learns kindness early is happy.” While less frequent in modern usage, its presence can evoke a timeless quality, particularly suitable for formal occasions, literary works, or ceremonial speeches. Historically, this structure has roots in classical literature and religious texts, lending it an air of traditional wisdom.
