Come, Let Me Take Thee.

Author: Robert Burns

Air - "Cauld Kail."



I.

        Come, let me take thee to my breast,
            And pledge we ne'er shall sunder;
        And I shall spurn as vilest dust
            The warld's wealth and grandeur:
        And do I hear my Jeanie own
            That equal transports move her?
        I ask for dearest life alone,
            That I may live to love her.

II.

        Thus in my arms, wi' a' thy charms,
            I clasp my countless treasure;
        I'll seek nae mair o' heaven to share,
            Than sic a moment's pleasure:
        And by thy een, sae bonnie blue,
            I swear I'm thine for ever!
        And on thy lips I seal my vow,
            And break it shall I never.
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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: The poem is a romantic ode, an intimate declaration of love and commitment where the speaker swears eternal fidelity to his beloved, Jeanie. The poem is written in a dialect, possibly Scottish, which adds a layer of authenticity and warmth to the verses. The theme is love in its most pure and intense form, rejecting material wealth and grandeur for the emotional richness of the relationship.

The poem is composed in two quatrains, each with a strong rhythmic pattern that adds musicality and emphasizes the speaker's passionate pledge. The tone is sincere, fervent, displaying an emotional intensity that is both moving and compelling. The speaker's use of imagery, such as "vilest dust" and "countless treasure," contrast worldly pursuits with the priceless value of love. Similarly, the metaphoric use of "Jeanie's blue eyes" and "sealing the vow on her lips" personify the romantic love in a sensual and tangible manner. The repetition of the vow in the last line of each stanza underscores the speaker's unwavering commitment, making his promise feel deeply heartfelt and powerful. Through these elements, the poet has created an evocative and passionate testament to the power of love over material wealth.

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.