Bonnie Peggy Alison

By Robert Burns

Lyric Poem
    Tune - "Braes o' Balquihidder." Chorus.         I'll kiss thee yet, yet,             An' I'll kiss thee o'er again;         An' I'll kiss thee yet, yet,             My bonnie Peggy Alison! I.         Ilk care and fear, when thou art near,             I ever mair defy them, O;         Young kings upon their hansel throne             Are no sae blest as I am, O! II.         When in my arms, wi' a' thy charms,             I clasp my countless treasure, O,         I seek nae mair o' Heaven to share             Than sic a moment's pleasure, O! III.         And by thy een, sae bonnie blue,             I swear, I'm thine for ever, O!         And on thy lips I seal my vow,                 And break it shall I never, O!                     I'll kiss thee yet, yet,                         An' I'll kiss thee o'er again;                     An' I'll kiss thee yet, yet,                         My bonnie Peggy Alison!

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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 delightful ballad of love and unending affection, conveyed in a tone that is both passionate and playful. It is structured in a classic verse-chorus form, reminiscent of folk songs, and is filled with a sense of joyous commitment to the beloved, referred to here as "bonnie Peggy Alison."

The poet's utilization of repetition, particularly in the chorus, underscores the intensity of the speaker's emotions and the consistency of his devotion. The repeated phrase, "I'll kiss thee yet, yet, An' I'll kiss thee o'er again," serves as a powerful mantra of undying love, suggesting a timeless and enduring affection.

The imagery throughout is intimate and affectionate, painting a vivid and personal picture of love in its purest form. The speaker compares his feelings for his beloved to the blessings of young kings and the pleasure of Heaven, elevating his emotional state to an almost divine level. The use of dialect also lends a sense of authenticity, and a connection to a specific time and place, rooting this ethereal love in the real world.

The poem's tone is unambiguously positive, filled with a joyful love that is both intense and consistent. The speaker's promises to his beloved, sealed "on thy lips," suggest an unwavering commitment that adds depth to the overall theme of devoted love. The poem, in its entirety, serves as a beautiful testament to a love that is both profound and enduring.

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.