Song Of Death

By Robert Burns

Lyric Poem
    Air - "Oran an Aoig." Scene - A field of battle. Time of the day, evening. The wounded and dying of the victorious army are supposed to join in the following song: I.         Farewell, thou fair day, thou green earth, and ye skies,             Now gay with the bright setting sun;         Farewell loves and friendships, ye dear tender ties             Our race of existence is run! II.         Thou grim king of terrors, thou life's gloomy foe!             Go frighten the coward and slave;         Go, teach them to tremble, fell tyrant! but know,             No terrors hast thou to the brave! III.         Thou strik'st the dull peasant, he sinks in the dark,             Nor saves e'en the wreck of a name;         Thou strik'st the young hero, a glorious mark!             He falls in the blaze of his fame! IV.         In the field of proud honour, our swords in our hands,             Our king and our country to save,         While victory shines on life's last ebbing sands,             Oh! who would not die with the brave!

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poignant and evocative poem is set against the backdrop of a battlefield, exploring the somber themes of mortality, courage, and sacrifice. The poet employs a solemn and heroic tone, capturing the valor and resilience of the victorious but wounded soldiers. The usage of 'farewell' in the first stanza marks a sense of finality, signifying the impending end of their lives, while also establishing a poignant connection with the natural world, their loved ones, and their journey of life.

The poem employs the personification of death, referring to it as the 'grim king of terrors' and 'life's gloomy foe,' to create a stark contrast between the perception of death by the brave and the fearful. The poet emphasizes the bravery of soldiers, suggesting that they do not fear death, and instead, confront it with honor and dignity. The third and fourth stanzas further highlight the dichotomy between the 'dull peasant' and the 'young hero,' underscoring the nobility and glory attributed to dying in battle. The repetition of the term 'brave' serves to reinforce the valor of these soldiers, while the phrase 'die with the brave' encapsulates the theme of heroic sacrifice. The structure of the poem, with its consistent rhythm and rhyme scheme, also contributes to its overall impassioned and dramatic effect.

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.