Answer To A Poetical Epistle Sent To The Author

By Robert Burns

What ails ye now, ye lousie b----h, To thresh my back at sic a pitch? Losh, man! hae mercy wi' your natch, Your bodkin's bauld, I didna suffer ha'f sae much Frae Daddie Auld. What tho' at times when I grow crouse, I gie their wames a random pouse, Is that enough for you to souse Your servant sae? Gae mind your seam, ye prick-the-louse, An' jag-the-flae. King David o' poetic brief, Wrought 'mang the lasses sic mischief, As fill'd his after life wi' grief, An' bluidy rants, An' yet he's rank'd amang the chief O' lang-syne saunts. And maybe, Tam, for a' my cants, My wicked rhymes, an' druken rants, I'll gie auld cloven Clootie's haunts An unco' slip yet, An' snugly sit among the saunts At Davie's hip get. But fegs, the Session says I maun Gae fa' upo' anither plan, Than garrin lasses cowp the cran Clean heels owre body, And sairly thole their mither's ban Afore the howdy. This leads me on, to tell for sport, How I did wi' the Session sort, Auld Clinkum at the inner port Cried three times, "Robin! Come hither, lad, an' answer for't, Ye're blamed for jobbin'." Wi' pinch I pat a Sunday's face on, An' snoov'd away before the Session; I made an open fair confession, I scorn'd to lee; An' syne Mess John, beyond expression, Fell foul o' me.

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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 captivating blend of humor, self-deprecation, and social commentary, written in a dialect that adds a layer of authenticity to its voice. The main themes seem to be personal reflection, repentance, and defiance against societal norms or expectations. The poet's tone is conversational, almost confessional, creating an intimate connection with the reader.

The structure of the poem, which appears to be written in a form of Scottish verse, lends a rhythmic, almost musical quality to the narrative. Each stanza builds upon the last, providing a linear narrative that guides the reader through the poet's introspection and experiences. The standout literary device here is the use of dialect, which not only roots the poem in a specific culture but also adds a layer of character to the narration.

The poem is rich in vivid imagery and colloquial expressions, painting a clear picture of the protagonist's life and struggles. The poet's humor shines through, providing a light-hearted counterbalance to the more serious themes of sin and redemption. There's a sense of defiance, too, as the poet chooses to live life on his own terms, despite societal judgments. This combination of humor, defiance, and introspection makes for a compelling narrative that simultaneously entertains and provokes thought.