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Poem of the Month |
Robert Burns wrote many poems praising one particular lassie. But he also wrote poems praising women in general. [Green Grow the Rashes is one such poem.] Feminists especially like the last verse, and it's catchy tune makes it a popular song with folk singers. The tone of the poem is optimistic -- whatever cares the world piles on your shoulders the "lasses, O" will make life worthwhile.
The ending of every line with "O" emphasizes the circular and cyclical theme of the poem. Cares surround a person. Worldly people chase riches, which even if they find them, still do not find enjoyment. "My arms about my Dearie" is another cirular image, as is the topsy-turviness ("tapsalteerie") of worldly cares. Even Robert Burns seemed to run in circles, going from woman to woman.
But, although the tone is optimistic, there is also the hurried theme of time running out. The hours, even with the lassies, is passing quickly. This song has been sung very slowly and also very fast and frenetic, depending on the interpretation of the singer.
--Pete Kucik