To John M'Murdo, Esq.

Author: Robert Burns

        O, could I give thee India's wealth,
            As I this trifle send!
        Because thy joy in both would be
            To share them with a friend.

        But golden sands did never grace
            The Heliconian stream;
        Then take what gold could never buy,
            An honest Bard's esteem.
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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

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Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem, structured as two stanzas of four lines each, is a heartfelt declaration of friendship and esteem from the speaker to the recipient. The theme of the poem is the inherent value of personal bonds and respect over material wealth. This is epitomized in the first stanza, where the speaker expresses a desire to give the recipient India's wealth, but recognizes that the recipient's joy would come not from the wealth itself, but from sharing it with a friend.

The tone of the poem is sincere and intimate, suggesting a close bond between the speaker and the recipient. The author uses the metaphor of India's wealth and golden sands to represent material wealth, while the 'Heliconian stream,' a reference to one of the mythic rivers said to inspire poetic genius in Greek mythology, signifies the creative and emotional richness. The final line concludes the poem by offering what material wealth cannot buy - an honest Bard's esteem, thus affirming the value of integrity and personal respect over material possessions.

The poem also stands out for its use of classical allusion, a literary device that adds depth to the poem's themes and conveys the speaker's learned nature. Moreover, the rhymed couplets in each stanza contribute to the poem's musicality and rhythm, making the poem not just a thoughtful exploration of its themes, but a pleasure to read or hear.

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.