Author: Robert Burns
Ask why God made the gem so small, And why so huge the granite? Because God meant mankind should set The higher value on it.
Type of Poem: Epigram
Date Written:
Date Published:
Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Publisher:
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Comments/Notes: This piece of poetry is a philosophical exploration of the dichotomy between the grandeur of nature and the intricacies of human values. The themes of divinity, human perception, and value are deeply intertwined. The very structure of the poem, composed of four lines, is compact yet profound, reflecting the theme of significance in smallness as expressed in the poem's first line.
The poet uses comparison as a primary literary device, contrasting the "small gem" with the "huge granite". This juxtaposition not only emphasizes the physical disparity but also subtly questions human standards of value. The tone of the poem is contemplative and introspective, inviting readers to reflect on the paradoxical nature of value. The language is simple yet impactful, mirroring the essence of the gem, which despite its small size, holds immense value. The poem ultimately suggests that the value we place on things is not always directly related to their size or abundance, but rather their rarity or the effort humans put into obtaining or appreciating them.