Author: A. H. Laidlaw

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    I have loved you all my days,
    Betsie Brown,
    And I'll never cease to praise
    Betsie Brown;
    Still must I break love's tie,
    To act a patriot part,
    But I'll yield thee, as I die,
    The last throb of my heart,
    Betsie Brown!

    For my country let me die,
    Betsie Brown,
    And never grieve nor cry,
    Betsie Brown,
    But lay me down to sleep
    Where my country's tempests rave,
    Where its mountain moss can creep
    O'er an humble patriot's grave,
    Betsie Brown!

    And should my boy, with thee,
    Betsie Brown,
    By my grave once bend the knee,
    Betsie Brown,
    Teach him to bleed or die
    For his country or his God,
    Like him whose ashes lie
    Beneath the loving sod,
    Betsie Brown!

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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poignant poem speaks of a tender yet tragic love story set against a backdrop of patriotism and sacrifice. The subject, presumably a soldier or patriot, is expressing his deep love for Betsie Brown, a love that is so profound that he promises her the 'last throb' of his heart. The repetitive use of 'Betsie Brown' throughout the poem serves as a refrain, emphasizing the depth of his affection for her. The poem, however, is not merely a love letter, but an exploration of the tension between personal love and duty to one's country. The soldier is prepared to break his emotional ties with Betsie, to serve his country, even if it means dying for it. This sacrificial love for the nation is as intense as his love for Betsie, showcasing the poet's successful juxtaposition of personal and national love.

In the latter part of the poem, the poet introduces the image of a son, adding another layer of emotional depth to the narrative.