Epitaph on Robert Muir
written in 1784
Epitaph on Robert Muir - fact Summary
Epitaph for Robert Muir
This four-line epitaph, written by Robert Burns in 1784 for his friend Robert Muir, functions as a brisk, ironic memorial. Addressed to God, it praises the deceased in a tongue-in-cheek way—suggesting that if this man is denied heaven, very few would be admitted. The poem compresses character sketch and theological challenge into a tight, conversational tone appropriate to tombstone verse, using the epitaph form to mix personal affection with sharp, rhetorical wit.
Read Complete AnalysesWhat man could esteem, or what woman could love, Was he who lies under this sod: If such Thou refuses admission above, Then whom wilt Thou favour, Good God?
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