Robert Burns

The Cares O' Love

written in 1788

The Cares O' Love - meaning Summary

Sweet Sorrows of Love

This short dialogue presents two contrasting attitudes toward romantic attachment. The male voice celebrates the "cares o' Love" as sweeter than other pleasures and treats even its sorrows as part of a treasured enjoyment. The female speaker replies cautiously, refusing to risk being ensnared; she values a light heart and an independent, carefree life. The poem therefore stages a tension between the allure of passionate commitment and the desire for personal freedom, registering ambivalence about love rather than resolving which stance is right.

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HE The cares o' Love are sweeter far Than onie other pleasure; And if sae dear its sorrows are, Enjoyment, what a treasure! SHE I fear to try, I dare na try A passion sae ensnaring; For light's her heart and blythe's her song That for nae man is caring.

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