Poem Analysis - Broom Besoms

Initial Impression and Tone

Robert Burns' poem "Broom Besoms" presents a humorous and somewhat cynical take on marriage and the qualities desired in a wife. The poem's tone is lighthearted and satirical, with a recurring refrain that adds a rhythmic, almost playful quality. Despite its playful tone, the poem delves into deeper themes of aging, mortality, and the practicalities of marriage. The shift in mood occurs in the second part of the poem, where the speaker reflects on his own aging and past experiences, adding a layer of melancholy to the otherwise comedic narrative.

Themes of Marriage and Practicality

The primary theme of the poem is the speaker's pragmatic approach to marriage. The speaker emphasizes that he will accept a wife regardless of her appearance or age, as long as she is a woman. This is evident in lines such as "An she be a woman, that's enough for me" and "Be she green or gray; be she black or fair; Let her be a woman, I shall seek nae mair." The speaker's focus on practicality over romance highlights the societal expectations and economic necessities of marriage in Burns' time. The repetition of the phrase "Buy broom besoms!" serves as a humorous and somewhat ironic commentary on the transactional nature of marriage, suggesting that the speaker is more interested in the domestic benefits of a wife than her personal qualities.

Themes of Aging and Mortality

The poem also explores the theme of aging and mortality, particularly in the second part. The speaker reflects on his own youth and vitality, contrasting it with his current frailty. Lines such as "Young and souple was I, when I lap the dyke; Now I'm auld and frail, I douna step a syke" and "Young and souple was I, when at Lautherslack, Now I'm auld and frail, and lie at Nansie's back" highlight the passage of time and the inevitability of aging. This reflection adds a layer of poignancy to the poem, suggesting that the speaker's pragmatic approach to marriage may be a coping mechanism for his own mortality. The theme of aging is further emphasized by the speaker's acceptance of an older wife, as seen in the line "If that she be auld, the sooner she will die."

Symbolism of Broom Besoms

The recurring phrase "Buy broom besoms!" and the description of "Fine heather ringers, better never grew" serve as a central symbol in the poem. Broom besoms are traditional Scottish brooms made from broom plants, and heather ringers are decorative rings made from heather. These items represent domestic life and the practical benefits of having a wife. The repetition of this phrase emphasizes the speaker's focus on the practical aspects of marriage, rather than romantic or emotional considerations. The phrase also serves as a humorous and ironic commentary on the transactional nature of marriage, suggesting that the speaker is more interested in the domestic benefits of a wife than her personal qualities. The vivid imagery of the broom besoms and heather ringers contributes to the overall message of the poem, highlighting the speaker's pragmatic and somewhat cynical approach to marriage.

Conclusion

"Broom Besoms" by Robert Burns is a humorous and satirical exploration of marriage, aging, and mortality. Through its lighthearted tone and recurring refrain, the poem delves into the practicalities of marriage and the societal expectations surrounding it. The themes of aging and mortality add a layer of poignancy to the poem, suggesting that the speaker's pragmatic approach to marriage may be a coping mechanism for his own mortality. The symbolism of the broom besoms and heather ringers emphasizes the speaker's focus on the domestic benefits of a wife, highlighting the transactional nature of marriage in Burns' time. Ultimately, the poem offers a unique and insightful perspective on the complexities of marriage and the human condition.