The Hie Road

By Violet Jacob

The hie road winds, the hie road climbs, Up by the hill an' doon the glen, By the burn that sings through the auld grey stanes, An' the croon o' the wind on the moorland plains. The hie road's lang, but it turns again, An' wha kens whaur it may end or when? But aye as I gang, wi' the licht o' the mune, The sicht o' the hame that I love comes sune. For the hie road winds, the hie road turns, An' aye the heart wi' the distance yearns; But the hame licht's glintin' sae bonnie an' clear, An' I'll no be lang on the road, my dear.
Written: 1917-11-05

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Poem Details

Date Written: 1917-11-05
Language: Scots
Keywords: Journey, Road, Scotland, Home, Love
Source: Collected Poems of Violet Jacob
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Analysis & Notes:
A poem that metaphorically describes the journey of life, with a focus on returning home, symbolizing love and belonging.

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.