A Grace Before Meat

By Robert Burns

Lyric Poem
        O thou in whom we live and move,             Who mad'st the sea and shore,         Thy goodness constantly we prove,             And grateful would adore.         And if it please thee, Power above,             Still grant us with such store,         The friend we trust, the fair we love,             And we desire no more.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a deeply reverent and humble appreciation of the divine and the gifts of life. The theme is centered around gratitude and sincere devotion, as seen in the speaker's acknowledgment of the divine's creation ("Who mad'st the sea and shore") and benevolence ("Thy goodness constantly we prove"). The tone is humble, gracious, and earnest, underscoring the speaker's heartfelt thankfulness.

The poem is structured in two quatrains, following an ABAB rhyme scheme, which lends a rhythmic, harmonious quality that complements the theme of divine appreciation. The repeated use of the respectful "Thou" to address the divine entity invokes a sense of intimacy and reverence, while maintaining an elevated, respectful tone.

The poem's standout literary device is its personification of the divine ("O thou in whom we live and move"), which fosters a deep, intimate connection between the speaker and the divine. This humanization of the divine reflects the speaker's personal relationship with their faith, making the divine entity more approachable and relatable.

Lastly, the final lines encapsulate the speaker's modest, content desires, reinforcing the theme of gratitude and satisfaction with the divine's gifts ("The friend we trust, the fair we love, / And we desire no more"). This brings the poem full circle, ending on a note of humble appreciation that reinforces the themes and tones established in the opening lines.

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.