Poem Analysis - Put Butter In My Donalds Brose

Introduction: Bawdy Humor and Sexual Triumph

Robert Burns' "Put Butter In My Donald's Brose" is a raucous and overtly sexual poem that celebrates female agency and challenges traditional power dynamics in relationships. The poem's tone is playful and humorous, bordering on the vulgar, and it maintains this lightheartedness throughout. Despite the potentially shocking content, there is an undeniable sense of joy and triumph conveyed, especially concerning the female character's victory in the described encounter. The poem, through its language and imagery, presents a non-romanticized, earthy depiction of sexuality.

A Glimpse into Burns' World: Scottish Vernacular and Social Commentary

While a detailed historical context isn't crucial for understanding the immediate impact of the poem, it is relevant to know that Robert Burns was a Scottish poet known for his use of vernacular language and his progressive views. The poem's language is heavily rooted in Scots dialect, lending it a distinct regional flavor and authenticity. Burns often addressed social issues and challenged societal norms, and this poem can be seen as a subtle subversion of traditional patriarchal attitudes toward female sexuality. By presenting the woman as assertive and ultimately victorious, Burns contributes to a broader commentary on gender roles within his social context.

The Dance of Power: Theme of Sexual Dominance and Subversion

One of the primary themes in the poem is the power dynamic between the male and female characters during a sexual encounter. Initially, Donald boasts ("That he wad fecht the battle there,/An stick the lass, an a' that"), suggesting a desire for dominance. However, the woman's response ("Then she turned up her hairy cunt,/An she bade Donald claw that") immediately challenges this notion. She takes control of the situation, dictating the terms of the encounter. The repetition of "For a' that, an a' that,/An twice as meikle's a' that,/The lassie gat a skelpit doup,/But wan the day for a' that," underscores the fact that despite any initial perceived disadvantage, the woman ultimately "wan the day," implying a victory not necessarily of physical force, but of sexual agency and will. This subversion of expected gender roles is a central element of the poem's thematic depth.

Beyond the Brose: Symbolism of Food and the Body

The title itself, "Put Butter In My Donald's Brose," is symbolic. "Brose" is a type of porridge, a staple food in Scotland. The addition of butter suggests comfort, indulgence, and perhaps even a lubricant for what is to come. The imagery of the body is vividly and unapologetically presented throughout the poem. Phrases like "His naked erse," "His hairy ballocks, side an wide," and "her hairy cunt" are direct and unflinching. These images are not romanticized, but rather presented as raw and natural. The "pentle like a roarin-pin" (a rolling pin) is a particularly striking image, representing the man's sexual organ with a humorous and exaggerated comparison. The poem challenges the reader to confront sexuality without the filter of idealized romanticism. The woman's "hairy cunt" is especially noteworthy. By presenting the female body in such a raw manner, Burns rejects common beauty standards, creating a sense of normalcy and power around natural womanhood.

A Devilish Dozen: Explicit Imagery and its Impact

The phrase "The deevil's dizzen Donald drew,/An Donald gied her a' that" is probably the most explicit in the poem. "The devil's dozen" is thirteen; the meaning is ambiguous, but it refers to how many times Donald sexually gratifies the woman. The vagueness of this line prompts an interesting question: Is Burns celebrating mutually pleasurable sex, or is he making a more complicated statement about the potential for exploitation, even within a seemingly empowering context? This ambiguity adds another layer to the poem's interpretation. Regardless, the image is undoubtedly powerful and reinforces the poem's overall focus on the physical and primal aspects of human interaction. The vivid and unapologetic imagery shocks the reader, forcing a confrontation with unadulterated sensuality.

Conclusion: A Celebration of Female Agency

In conclusion, "Put Butter In My Donald's Brose" is a bawdy and humorous poem that challenges traditional power dynamics within sexual relationships. Through vivid imagery, bold language, and a subversive narrative, Robert Burns presents a scenario where a woman asserts her agency and ultimately triumphs. The poem's significance lies in its unromanticized depiction of sexuality and its celebration of female empowerment, offering a refreshing and provocative perspective on gender roles. The poem is more than just a raunchy tale; it’s a statement on power, desire, and the unexpected turns that can occur in the game of love.