Poem Analysis - An Extemporaneous Effusion On Being Appointed To The Excise

A Lament for Lost Laurels: Introduction

Robert Burns' "An Extemporaneous Effusion on being appointed to the Excise" is a short, poignant reflection on the realities of life versus ambition. The poem expresses a mix of regret and acceptance, moving from a mournful opening to a pragmatic conclusion. It's a glimpse into the poet's personal struggle between his artistic aspirations and the need to provide for his family. Despite its brevity, the poem captures a universal tension between ideals and the practical demands of existence, flavored with Burns' characteristic wit and heartfelt sentiment.

Historical Context: The Poet's Dilemma

Understanding Burns's life is crucial to appreciating this poem. Burns, though celebrated as a poet, struggled financially throughout his life. Taking a position as an excise officer – essentially a tax collector – was a practical decision, providing a stable income. However, it was a job considered beneath his artistic stature, hence the lament in the poem. This historical context reveals the poem not just as a personal complaint, but as a commentary on the societal pressures that can force artists to compromise their ideals.

The Weight of Responsibility: A Primary Theme

One of the main themes is the conflict between personal aspirations and familial responsibility. The lines "These muvin' things ca'd wives and weans, / Wad muve the very hearts o' stanes!" highlight the power of family to influence decisions. The word "muvin'" suggests not only their physical presence but also their emotional impact. They are a force that can soften even the most resolute hearts, compelling Burns to accept a job he clearly finds distasteful. The poem implies that his duty to his family outweighs his personal desires for poetic glory.

Stained Laurels: Imagery of Compromise

The central image of "clarty barm" staining his "laurels" is a powerful symbol of compromise. "Laurels" represent poetic achievement and recognition, while "clarty barm" – yeasty residue from brewing, found in the barrels of "auld wives" – symbolizes the mundane and somewhat unpleasant reality of his new profession. The verb "stain" suggests a permanent defilement, indicating Burns's fear that his excise work will tarnish his reputation as a poet. This vivid imagery underscores the tension between his artistic identity and his new role.

Acceptance and Resignation: Tone and its Transformation

The poem's tone shifts subtly from initial despair to a reluctant acceptance. The opening lines, "Searching auld wives' barrels, / Ochon, the day!" convey a sense of lament and regret. "Ochon" is a Gaelic expression of sorrow, immediately establishing a mournful mood. However, the concluding "But-what'll ye say?" suggests a resignation to fate. The final couplet, while acknowledging the influence of family, also hints at a kind of ironic understanding: he knows why he's doing it, even if he doesn't like it. This shift in tone reflects a mature acceptance of life's compromises.

Concluding Thoughts: Universal Echoes

"An Extemporaneous Effusion" is a concise yet resonant poem that captures the perennial human struggle between ambition and necessity. Burns's personal lament becomes a universal reflection on the sacrifices we make for those we love, and the compromises we endure in the face of life's practical demands. The poem's enduring significance lies in its honest portrayal of this conflict, reminding us that even the most celebrated individuals face everyday struggles and make difficult choices.