A Bards Epitaph

By Robert Burns

Elegy
        Is there a whim-inspired fool,         Owre fast for thought, owre hot for rule,         Owre blate to seek, owre proud to snool,             Let him draw near;         And owre this grassy heap sing dool,             And drap a tear.         Is there a bard of rustic song,         Who, noteless, steals the crowds among,         That weekly this area throng,             O, pass not by!         But with a frater-feeling strong,             Here heave a sigh.         Is there a man, whose judgment clear,         Can others teach the course to steer,         Yet runs, himself, life's mad career,             Wild as the wave;         Here pause, and, through the starting tear,             Survey this grave.         The poor inhabitant below         Was quick to learn and wise to know,         And keenly felt the friendly glow,             And softer flame,         But thoughtless follies laid him low,             And stain'd his name!         Reader, attend, whether thy soul         Soars fancy's flights beyond the pole,         Or darkling grubs this earthly hole,             In low pursuit;         Know, prudent, cautious self-control,             Is wisdom's root.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This compelling poem presents a rich exploration of human nature, societal judgment, and the conflict between wisdom and folly. It uses a variety of individuals: the 'whim-inspired fool,' the unnoticed 'bard of rustic song,' and the man who can guide others but not himself, as vehicles to reflect on the paradoxes of human existence and the value of self-awareness and control. The poet employs a direct, conversational tone, engaging the reader in an intimate dialogue about life's complexities.

The structure of the poem, composed of five quatrains, each followed by a couplet, contributes to the rhythmic and thematic flow. The thematic progression from the fool to the wise man, ending with a call for self-control in the final stanza, encapsulates the poet's moral stance. The use of the grave as a symbol not only of mortality but also of the consequences of 'thoughtless follies' is a powerful device that underscores the poem's sobering message. The poem also employs a strong sense of place, with the 'grassy heap' and the 'earthly hole' grounding the broader philosophical musings in tangible reality. The poem is both a critique of human follies and a compassionate plea for understanding, self-control, and wisdom.

Understanding Elegy

An elegy is a form of poetry that expresses sorrow or lamentation, often for someone who has died. This type of poetry serves as a tribute to the deceased, reflecting on their life and the grief left behind.

Elegies are deeply emotional and personal, exploring themes of loss, mourning, and remembrance. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Mournful Tone: Elegies are characterized by a tone of sadness and reflection, as the poet grapples with the pain of loss.
  • Tribute to the Deceased: The subject of an elegy is often someone who has passed away, with the poem serving as a memorial that honors their life and legacy.
  • Personal Reflection: Elegies often include personal reflections on the impact of the deceased on the poet's life, as well as broader musings on mortality and the human condition.
  • Structure and Form: While elegies can vary in form, they often follow a traditional structure that includes an expression of grief, praise for the deceased, and a sense of consolation or acceptance.

From ancient times to the present, elegies have provided a way for poets to navigate the complexities of grief and loss, offering solace and a means of preserving the memory of those who have passed.