The Road to Marykirk

Author: Violet Jacob


The road to Marykirk lies lang,
Lang an' rough an' steep,

An' weary's the foot that fa's by the gate
When the nicht's sae dark an' deep.

But oh, my hert is lichtsome yet
Tho' the nicht be lang an' drear,

For aye I think on the road to you,
An' I see your face, my dear.

It's no the road nor the road's rough way
That tugs at my hert-strings so;

It's just the thought o' Marykirk
An' the place whaur I maun go.

The road to Marykirk is steep,
Steep an' dark an' lang,

But the licht o' love shines doun the hill,
An' I hear the river's sang.

Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written: 1923-11-10

Date Published:

Language: Scots

Keywords: Journey, Love, Scotland, Hope, Marykirk

Source: Collected Poems of Violet Jacob

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: A poem about the journey to Marykirk, reflecting on love and hope despite the challenges of the road.

Exploring Lyric Poetry

Lyric poetry is a powerful and intimate form of expression, characterized by its focus on the personal emotions and thoughts of the poet. Often musical in nature, lyric poems resonate with readers through their vivid language and rhythmic flow, capturing moments of intense feeling.


Here are some key characteristics that define lyric poetry:

  • Expressive Language: Lyric poems use rich and evocative language to convey deep emotions, often painting a vivid picture of the poet's inner world.
  • Personal Perspective: Typically written in the first person, these poems offer a window into the poet's personal experiences, thoughts, and reflections.
  • Musicality: Lyric poems often feature a rhythmic structure, with meter and rhyme that give them a song-like quality, enhancing the emotional impact.

From ancient odes to contemporary free verse, lyric poetry remains a beloved and enduring form, celebrated for its ability to articulate the nuances of human emotion in a way that resonates deeply with readers.