Poem Analysis - The Braw Wooer

Robert Burns' "The Braw Wooer" is a playful and ironic poem that depicts a young woman's experience with a fickle suitor. The poem’s tone is initially dismissive and mocking, transitioning into amused calculation and ultimately, a feigned reluctance. The speaker's voice is witty and sharp, cleverly manipulating the situation to her advantage. It's a lighthearted commentary on courtship, societal expectations, and the power dynamics between men and women. The humor is derived from the speaker's sarcasm and the wooer's obvious lack of steadfastness.

A Reflection of Social Norms

While not explicitly stated, Burns, writing in 18th-century Scotland, would have been acutely aware of the social pressures surrounding marriage. A "weel-stocked mailen" (well-stocked farm) was a significant asset, and the speaker's initial consideration of the wooer’s offer highlights the economic realities of the time. Marriage was often a practical arrangement, not solely based on romantic love. The poem, therefore, offers a glimpse into the complex negotiations and unspoken expectations that shaped relationships in that era. This gives context to the female speaker's actions as driven, in part, by social and economic realities.

The Performance of Love and Disdain

One of the central themes is the performative nature of love and disdain. The speaker initially claims to despise men ("I said, there was naething I hated like men"), yet she is clearly aware of her own attractiveness and the power she wields over her suitors. This is evident when she gives her wooer a "blink" over her shoulder, ensuring he remains interested. The poem suggests that courtship is a game, with both parties playing roles dictated by societal expectations. The speaker expertly navigates this game, feigning indifference while secretly evaluating her options and strategically deploying her charms.

The Shifting Power Dynamic

Another key theme is the shifting power dynamic between the speaker and the wooer. Initially, the wooer seems to hold the upper hand, possessing land and offering marriage. However, his fickleness ("But what wad ye think? - in a fortnight or less/The deil tak his taste to gae near her!") quickly diminishes his power. The speaker, on the other hand, gains control by skillfully manipulating his emotions and exploiting his insecurity. Her seemingly innocent inquiries about her cousin Bess ("I spier'd for my cousin fu' couthy and sweet") are designed to provoke his jealousy and reaffirm her own desirability. This subtle shift in power illustrates the woman’s intelligence.

Symbols of Deception and Allure

Several images and symbols contribute to the poem's meaning. The "bonie black e'en" are not just a physical attribute but a symbol of the speaker's allure and the power she holds over men. The "blink" she gives over her shoulder is a deliberate act of flirtation, a calculated move to reignite his interest. The mention of her cousin Bess serves as a symbolic threat, highlighting the speaker's awareness of her own desirability and her ability to inspire jealousy. The fact that the wooer "caper'd as he'd been in drink" suggests his irrationality and the extent to which he is swayed by the speaker's charms.

An Ironic Conclusion

In conclusion, "The Braw Wooer" is a delightful exploration of courtship, societal expectations, and the dynamics of power. Through witty language, sharp observation, and subtle irony, Burns paints a portrait of a clever and resourceful woman who skillfully navigates the complexities of love and marriage. The poem’s seemingly straightforward narrative belies a deeper commentary on the performative nature of relationships and the strategic maneuvering that often underlies the pursuit of love. The poem’s ending, with the speaker’s feigned reluctance to "preserve the poor body in life," is the final touch of brilliance, leaving the reader with a lingering sense of amusement and admiration for her cunning. Ultimately, the poem is less about genuine love and more about the game of courtship and the subtle ways in which women could exert influence within a patriarchal society.