Galloway Tam
written in 1792
Galloway Tam - meaning Summary
Mocking a Boastful Suitor
This short, playful Scots poem mocks a braggart named Galloway Tam whose courting and rough behavior unsettle a household. The speaker suggests giving him livestock instead of allowing him to woo or work—practical exchanges that ward off his meddling. Tam’s kisses and a blow to the husband are presented as typical roguish tricks, and the community response is pragmatic and scornful rather than romantic. The tone is teasing and colloquial, framing Tam as a disruptive, untrustworthy figure whose presence is best handled with humor and material deterrents.
Read Complete AnalysesO Galloway Tam came here to woo, I'd rather we'd gin him the brawnit cow; For our lass Bess may curse and ban The wanton wit o' Galloway Tam. O Galloway Tam came here to shear, I'd rather we'd gin him the gude gray mare; He kist the gudewife and strack the gudeman, And that's the tricks o' Galloway Tam.
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