Robert Burns (1759-1796) is one of the best-known Scottish authors. His poetry is just bursting with radical politics and funny word choices, and he is often referred to as the poet of the people. There’s just one thing: a lot of his poetry is written in Scottish English. Now, if you’re like me, with no former knowledge of Scottish English (well, other than, say a dinna ken and och aye and bonnie lassie), here are some tips to make Burns’ poetry more approachable. It might take a bit of work, but I promise you it’ll be a 100% worth it.
Get Your Context Right
Get an annotated version of the poems you want to read. I recommend this one (used by students of University of Edinburgh) – Robert Irvine’s notes are excellent. Bear in mind, however, that it includes only some of Burns’ poems. I’m not saying you can’t enjoy Burns without historical context. I’m saying, however, that you shouldn’t. For example, the poem ‘Why Should Na Poor Folk Mowe’ satirises the French Revolution. Without knowing this, you might be pretty confused on what it’s about. So, again – context matters! Do try to get your hands on an annotated version. I recommend you also check out Burns Country for poems, dictionary annotations and information online.
A Dictionary Makes All the Difference
It’s quite simple, really: you probably won’t understand Scottish English poetry if you don’t understand Scottish English – without a dictionary, that is. I recommend DSL and The Mudcat Café’s Scots Glossary. Keep these open when you read, and you’ll be delighted. Not only will you get better understanding of the poem, you’ll learn some Scottish English as well. Two birds, one stone!
Read it Out Loud
Burs’ poetry is often written in standard habbie – it is rhythmic and energetic, and should be read aloud. Trust me; it might feel dumb to read something aloud you don’t even know how to pronounce, but it really helps. You get a sense of the rhythm, and it makes it a lot easier to understand the poem.
Don’t Skip These Steps
…even though it might feel like a lot of work. It really helps! And finally, if you’re wondering where to start, go for ‘To a Mouse’ (1785) if you’re craving something achingly funny with an underlying deep message and nature theme (it’s also suitable for kids!):
Wee, sleekit, cowrin, tim’rous beastie,
O, what a panic’s in thy breastie!
Thou need na start awa sae hasty,
Wi’ bickering brattle!
I wad be laith to rin an’ chase thee,
Wi’ murdering pattle!
If you want to read cutting political satire with themes of sex and revolution, go for ‘Why Should Na Poor Folk Mowe’ (1792):
When Princes and Prelates and het-headed zealots
All Europe hae set in a lowe,
The poor man lies down, nor envies a crown,
And comforts himsel with a mowe.
And if you’re interested in Scottish folklore, check out ‘Address tot the Deil’ (1785), in which Burns challenges the typical religious, grim descriptions of the devil:
O Thou, whatever title suit thee!
Auld Hornie, Satan, Nick, or Clootie,
Wha in yon cavern grim an’ sooty
Clos’d under hatches,
Spairges about the brunstane cootie,
To scaud poor wretches!
Hope you feel as inspired as I do! Now go ahead and dive into the interesting world of the poetry of Robert Burns!