Poem Analysis - A Ballad While Prose Work And Rhymes

A Playful Subversion

Robert Burns' "A Ballad - While prose work and rhymes" is a lighthearted yet subtly subversive poem that uses the seemingly innocuous subject of a "mow" (a stack of grain or hay, and potentially a bawdy pun) to comment on the hypocrisies and absurdities of society. The poem's tone is playful and witty, adopting a mocking stance towards politics, religion, and even justice. While maintaining a generally jovial mood, the poem hints at underlying critiques of power and social inequalities, making the reader question the sincerity of those in authority.

Burns's Context: Scotland's Social Landscape

Robert Burns lived in a Scotland grappling with significant social and political change during the late 18th century. The poem subtly reflects the ongoing tensions between different political factions, particularly with the phrases "Constitution!" and "Revolution!" The mention of "Episcopal lawn" and "Presbyter band" points to the religious divisions prevalent at the time. Burns was known for his sympathy for the common person and his critiques of the powerful and privileged, which permeates the poem's playful jabs.

The Central Theme: Hypocrisy and Double Standards

One of the main themes explored in the poem is the pervasive hypocrisy and double standards within various societal institutions. The second stanza mocks both "Prince and Republic" by suggesting they agree only on the superficial – the "good mow," which can be read as an endorsement of basic pleasures while neglecting more profound issues. The third stanza takes aim at religious figures, both "proud Prelate" and "Presbyter zealot," implying their shared interest, again, in the "orthodox mow," hinting that despite their doctrinal differences, they are united in their carnal desires or other shared human weaknesses. Burns uses this recurring image to level the playing field, suggesting that figures of authority are just as susceptible to human failings as anyone else.

Justice Undone: A Skewed Perspective

The poem presents a critical view of justice. The fourth stanza directly accuses Justice of being biased, stating that "Poor Justice has ever / For Cunt had a favor." This vivid imagery suggests that justice is often influenced by sexual favors or other forms of corruption, implying that the scales of justice are not balanced and that fairness is often compromised. The line "While Justice could tak a gude mow" can be interpreted as suggesting that justice itself is willing to overlook transgressions if it benefits, reinforcing the theme of moral compromise within the system.

Symbols and Bawdy Undercurrents

The central symbol of the "mow" operates on multiple levels. On the surface, it represents a stack of grain or hay, a commonplace and relatively harmless image. However, the poem's tone and context strongly suggest a double entendre, with "mow" serving as a bawdy reference to female genitalia. This dual meaning allows Burns to use the image as a common denominator, suggesting that despite social, political, and religious differences, everyone shares basic human desires and vulnerabilities. This highlights the poem's theme of shared human failings across all levels of society.

Final Insight: A Celebration of Imperfection

In conclusion, Robert Burns' "A Ballad - While prose work and rhymes" is a clever and playful critique of societal hypocrisy. By employing the simple image of a "mow," the poem cleverly mocks the pretensions of politics, religion, and justice. The bawdy undercurrent adds a layer of levity, suggesting that human imperfection is a universal truth that transcends social standing. Ultimately, the poem celebrates the shared human experience, acknowledging the foibles and desires that unite us all, while subtly questioning the authority and moral high ground claimed by those in power.