To Miss Cruikshank, A Very Young Lady. Written On The Blank Leaf Of A Book, Presented To Her

By Robert Burns

Lyric Poem
        Beauteous rose-bud, young and gay,         Blooming in thy early May,         Never may'st thou, lovely flow'r,         Chilly shrink in sleety show'r!         Never Boreas' hoary path,         Never Eurus' poisonous breath,         Never baleful stellar lights,         Taint thee with untimely blights!         Never, never reptile thief         Riot on thy virgin leaf!         Nor even Sol too fiercely view         Thy bosom blushing still with dew!         May'st thou long, sweet crimson gem,         Richly deck thy native stem:         'Till some evening, sober, calm,         Dropping dews and breathing balm,         While all around the woodland rings,         And ev'ry bird thy requiem sings;         Thou, amid the dirgeful sound,         Shed thy dying honours round,         And resign to parent earth         The loveliest form she e'er gave birth.

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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 delicate ode to a rosebud, embodying themes of youth, beauty, and the transience of life. The poet employs rich imagery and personification to paint a vivid picture of the rosebud's life journey, from its early blooming to its eventual return to the earth, thus crafting an allegorical commentary on the human life cycle.

The tone of the poem is both celebratory and melancholic; it starts with a joyous depiction of the rosebud's bloom, but gradually shifts towards a somber reflection on its inevitable decay. The structure of the poem, divided into two main parts, mirrors the dual tone: the first half is filled with hopeful wishes for the rosebud's protection from harm, while the second half, although still affectionate, accepts and serenely anticipates the bud's death.

The poem is also notable for its use of classical allusions and archaic language, which serve to heighten the sense of grandeur and gravitas. The references to Boreas (the north wind) and Eurus (the east wind) personify the destructive elements of nature that threaten the rosebud's survival. Finally, the poem's use of the rosebud as a symbol is particularly effective; it encapsulates not only the fleeting nature of beauty and youth, but also the cyclical nature of life and death, thus adding a universal resonance to this specific portrayal of a rosebud's life.

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.