The Waters

Author: Violet Jacob

The waters o' the burnie rin,
The winds abune them sigh,

The sun sets laigh ahint the hill,
An' nicht is drawin' nigh.

The waters o' the burnie rin,
Wi' a sang that's sweet an' clear,

An' aye the soun' o' the flowin' tide
Brings back the days o' the year.

But the days o' the year are gane an' by,
An' the bairnies are far awa',

An' the nicht that fa's on the weary sward,
It brings nae rest ava.

Yet aye the waters o' the burnie rin,
An' the winds abune them sigh,

An' the licht that lies on the lanely hill,
It brings nae peace forbye.
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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written: 1918-10-01

Date Published:

Language: Scots

Keywords: Nature, Burn, Waters, Nostalgia, Scotland

Source: Collected Poems of Violet Jacob

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: A reflective poem focusing on the flowing waters of a burn (stream) and the nostalgic memories they evoke, mixed with a sense of longing.

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.