To Thee, Loved Nith.

Author: Robert Burns

I.

        To thee, lov'd Nith, thy gladsome plains,
            Where late wi' careless thought I rang'd,
        Though prest wi' care and sunk in woe,
            To thee I bring a heart unchang'd.

II.

        I love thee, Nith, thy banks and braes,
            Tho' mem'ry there my bosom tear;
        For there he rov'd that brake my heart,
            Yet to that heart, ah! still how dear!
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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 intimate, emotive poem is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the enduring power of memory, set against the backdrop of the natural world. The Nith, presumably a river, serves as a focal point and a metaphorical conduit for the narrator's feelings. The speaker's affection for the Nith, clearly evident in the repeated declarations of love, is interlaced with a deep sense of sorrow and longing. This suggests a lost love associated with this location, turning the picturesque landscape into a bittersweet tableau of past happiness and present heartbreak.

The poem's structure is simple yet effective, with two quatrains each focusing on the speaker's emotional state and their connection with the Nith. The use of repetition, particularly in the phrase "I love thee, Nith," amplifies the sense of longing and unchanging affection, despite the pain associated with the memories. The poet expertly employs this device to create an overwhelming sense of nostalgia and melancholy. The language is straightforward but full of emotional resonance, giving the poem a deeply personal, almost confessional tone. Overall, the poem is a powerful testament to the enduring power of love and the places that hold significant personal meaning, even when they are intertwined with pain and loss.

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.