To Chloris
written in 1795
To Chloris - meaning Summary
Comforts of the Mind
Robert Burns addresses a friend, Chloris, consoling her as illness or misfortune forces her from the world of youthful pleasures. The poem reframes loss by celebrating inward resources: honorable conduct, a faithful heart, refined sensibility, and the consolations of art and taste. Burns urges Chloris to accept friendship and the moral guidance of the poet as sustaining gifts. Rather than lamenting external change, the speaker privileges steady inner wealth—the "Comforts of the Mind"—and the sustaining work of friendship and the Muses.
Read Complete Analyses'Tis Friendship's pledge, my young, fair Friend; Nor thou the gift refuse, Nor with unwilling ear attend The moralising Muse. Since thou, in all thy youth and charms, Must bid the world adieu, (A world 'gainst Peace in constant arms) To join the Friendly Few: Since, thy gay morn of life o'ercast, Chill came the tempest's lour; (And ne'er Misfortune's eastern blast Did nip a fairer flower:) Since life's gay scenes must charm no more; Still much is left behind, Still nobler wealth hast thou in store, The Comforts of the Mind! Thine is the self-approving glow, On conscious Honor's part; And (dearest gift of Heaven below) Thine Friendship's truest heart. The joys refin'd of Sense and Taste, With every Muse to rove: And doubly were the Poet blest These joys could he improve.
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