Poem Analysis - Come Let Me Take Thee To My Breast

Initial Impressions and Tone

The poem Come let me take thee to my breast by Robert Burns is a passionate and heartfelt expression of love. The tone is intimate and fervent, with the speaker's deep emotions pouring out in every line. The mood shifts from a declaration of devotion to a moment of intense, almost ecstatic, connection. The poem's form, a series of declarations and vows, supports the speaker's urgent desire to express his love and commitment.

Historical and Authorial Context

Robert Burns, a renowned Scottish poet, is known for his romantic and often sentimental verses. His works frequently explore themes of love, nature, and Scottish identity. Burns' own life was marked by passionate relationships, which likely influenced his poetic expressions of love. The historical context of 18th-century Scotland, with its rich cultural traditions and social dynamics, also plays a role in shaping his poetry.

Themes of Love and Devotion

The central theme of the poem is love, specifically the speaker's intense devotion to his beloved, Jeanie. The speaker's willingness to forsake the world's wealth and grandeur for his love highlights the depth of his feelings. The repetition of the phrase I ask for dearest life alone that I may live to love her emphasizes the speaker's singular focus on his love for Jeanie. The theme of devotion is further underscored by the speaker's vows and promises, which are sealed with a kiss, symbolizing the sacredness of his commitment.

Themes of Ecstasy and Connection

The poem also explores the theme of ecstatic connection. The speaker finds ultimate pleasure in the moment of embracing his beloved, declaring that he seeks nae mair o' Heaven to share, Than sic a moment's pleasure. This moment of intense connection is described as a countless treasure, emphasizing its immense value to the speaker. The theme of connection is further highlighted by the speaker's use of the phrase Thus in my arms, wi' a thy charms, which suggests a deep, almost spiritual, union between the lovers.

Recurring Symbols and Imagery

The poem is rich in vivid imagery and symbols that contribute to its overall message. The speaker's breast, mentioned in the opening line, is a symbol of comfort and protection, inviting Jeanie into a safe and loving embrace. The warld's wealth and grandeur, which the speaker spurns, represents the superficial and transient values of the world, contrasting with the enduring value of love. The speaker's eyes, described as bonie blue, are a symbol of his sincerity and devotion, as he swears his eternal love by them. The lips, where the speaker seals his vow, symbolize the intimacy and commitment of his love.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Come let me take thee to my breast is a powerful expression of love and devotion. Through vivid imagery and symbols, Burns explores the themes of love, ecstasy, and connection, highlighting the transformative power of love. The poem's intimate tone and fervent declarations underscore the speaker's deep emotions, offering a glimpse into the intense, almost spiritual, bond between the lovers. The poem's significance lies in its celebration of love's ability to transcend worldly values and provide a moment of pure, unadulterated pleasure.