Poem Analysis - Extempore On Some Commemorations Of Thomson

Initial Impression and Tone

Robert Burns' poem Extempore - on some commemorations of Thomson presents a vivid and indignant tone, addressing the posthumous treatment of a fellow poet, James Thomson. The poem begins with a confrontational tone, questioning why Thomson's admirers, who ignored him in life, now celebrate him in death. The mood shifts from scornful to reflective, highlighting Thomson's struggles and his ultimate triumph over adversity. The poem's form, written in Scots dialect, adds a layer of authenticity and intimacy, making the critique more personal and poignant.

Historical and Biographical Context

Robert Burns, a renowned Scottish poet, often wrote about social injustices and the struggles of common people. His own life was marked by financial hardships and a deep appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit. James Thomson, the subject of this poem, was a Scottish poet known for his works like The Seasons. Thomson's life was similarly marked by poverty and neglect, making him a fitting subject for Burns' critique of societal indifference. Burns' personal experiences and his admiration for Thomson's work likely influenced the poem's themes and tone.

Themes: Indignation and Injustice

The primary theme of the poem is indignation at the injustice of society's treatment of talented but impoverished individuals. Burns expresses his outrage at those who now honor Thomson, who had previously ignored or even scorned him. The phrase "thy senseless turf adorn" suggests a hollow and meaningless tribute, emphasizing the hypocrisy of posthumous admiration. The poem questions the sincerity of these commemorations, highlighting the cruelty of neglecting someone in life only to praise them in death.

Themes: Struggle and Resilience

The poem also explores the themes of struggle and resilience. Burns describes Thomson's life as one of "meikle, meikle toil," emphasizing the hardships he endured. The image of Thomson "clamb the brae" (climbing the hill) symbolizes his relentless effort despite his circumstances. The "unfading garland" he clutches represents his literary achievements, which he earned through his own perseverance. This theme underscores the idea that true success comes from within, not from external validation or patronage.

Themes: Independence and Self-Reliance

Another significant theme is the value of independence and self-reliance. Burns asserts that true nobility comes from learning to live without the patronage of the wealthy. The axiom "Wouldst thou hae Nobles' patronage, First learn to live without it!" encapsulates this idea, suggesting that relying on others for success is futile. This theme is reinforced by the critique of societal norms that favor the wealthy and powerful, highlighting the importance of self-sufficiency and inner strength.

Symbolism and Imagery

The poem is rich in symbolism and imagery. The "senseless turf" symbolizes the superficiality of posthumous honors, contrasting with the genuine struggles Thomson faced in life. The "unfading garland" represents Thomson's enduring literary legacy, which he earned through his own efforts. The image of Thomson "clamb the brae" with "meikle, meikle toil" underscores his resilience and determination. These symbols and images contribute to the poem's overall message of the importance of inner strength and the futility of relying on external validation.

Conclusion

In summary, Robert Burns' Extempore - on some commemorations of Thomson is a powerful critique of societal hypocrisy and a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit. Through vivid imagery and a confrontational tone, Burns highlights the injustice of neglecting talented individuals in life only to praise them in death. The poem's themes of struggle, resilience, and self-reliance are reinforced by its symbols and imagery, offering a profound insight into the value of inner strength and the futility of relying on external validation. The poem serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and supporting talent in life, rather than merely paying tribute after death.