A Gallowa' Lilt

Author: Violet Jacob


It's weel I loe the simmer nicht,
Wi' a' its skinklin' sheen;

It's weel I loe the mune's pale licht,
That glimmers ower the green.

For aye the murm'rin' soun's sae sweet
That soughs alang the lea,

When blythe the burnie wimples fleet,
Wi' mony a lichtsome glee.

An' aye I'm fu' o' youthfu' dreams
When stars begin to shine,

An' as the mune the warld illumes,
My thochts gang back to mine.

Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written: 1914-07-01

Date Published:

Language: Scots

Keywords: Night, Summer, Nostalgia, Scotland, Dreams

Source: Collected Poems of Violet Jacob

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: A lyrical poem that captures the serene beauty of a summer night in Scotland, filled with nostalgia and youthful dreams.

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.