Epitaph for the Author's Father
written in 1784
Epitaph for the Author's Father - fact Summary
Epitaph for His Father
Robert Burns composed this epitaph for his father in 1784. It records the deceased’s social roles—husband, father, friend—and briefly sketches his moral character: compassionate toward suffering, unbowed by pride, broadly humane, and morally inclined even in fault. The tone is reverent and concise, aiming to commemorate private virtues rather than narrate events. Its purpose is memorial: to present an idealized, affectionate portrait that invites readers to honor the man’s benevolence and integrity.
Read Complete AnalysesO ye whose cheek the tear of pity stains, Draw near with pious rev'rence and attend! Here lie the loving Husband's dear remains, The tender Father, and the gen'rous Friend. The pitying Heart that felt for human Woe; The dauntless heart that fear'd no human Pride; The Friend of Man, to vice alone a foe; 'For ev'n his failings lean'd to Virtue's side'.
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