Burns Grace at Kirkcudbright

Burns Grace at Kirkcudbright - meaning Summary

Grace for Shared Abundance

This short poem is a plain, vernacular thanksgiving that contrasts abundance and want. Addressing the situation at a communal meal, the speaker notes that some have food but cannot eat, and others cannot eat though they want it; the gathered company, however, both possess and can eat their meat, so they offer thanks. The poem emphasizes gratitude for present provision while implicitly acknowledging social inequality. Its conversational voice and Scots diction make the sentiment immediate and communal rather than reflective or abstract.