Poem Analysis - Green Grow The Rashes

Initial Impression and Tone

Robert Burns' "Green Grow The Rashes" is a lively and playful poem that celebrates the joys of life and the company of women. The tone is lighthearted and jovial, with a touch of defiance against those who might disapprove of such simple pleasures. The poem begins and ends with the same refrain, creating a sense of completeness and reinforcing the central theme. The mood shifts slightly in the middle stanzas, where the speaker reflects on the futility of worldly pursuits and the importance of love.

Historical and Biographical Context

Robert Burns, a renowned Scottish poet, often wrote about the simple pleasures of rural life and the beauty of Scottish culture. His works frequently explore themes of love, nature, and the human condition. Burns' own experiences and observations of Scottish society likely influenced his writing, making his poetry deeply rooted in the cultural and social context of his time. The poem reflects the traditional Scottish values of enjoying life's simple pleasures and the importance of community and love.

Themes of Love and Joy

The most prominent theme in "Green Grow The Rashes" is the celebration of love and the joy it brings. The speaker repeatedly emphasizes that the sweetest hours of his life are spent with women, or "lasses." This theme is developed through vivid imagery of spending time with loved ones and the contrast between worldly pursuits and the simple pleasures of love. The repetition of the phrase "amang the lasses" underscores the centrality of love in the speaker's life.

Themes of Worldly Pursuits and Their Futility

The poem also explores the theme of the futility of worldly pursuits. The speaker contrasts the endless chase for riches with the simple joy of spending time with loved ones. The phrase "war'ly race may riches chase" highlights the futility of material pursuits, suggesting that true happiness comes from love and companionship rather than wealth. This theme is reinforced by the idea that even if one catches riches, their heart cannot enjoy them, emphasizing the emptiness of material success without love.

Themes of Defiance and Criticism of Judgment

Another significant theme is the defiance against those who might judge or criticize the speaker's simple pleasures. The speaker addresses those who "sneer" at his love for women, calling them "senseless asses." This defiance is a critique of societal norms and expectations, suggesting that true wisdom lies in appreciating the simple joys of life. The speaker asserts that even the wisest man in the world loved women, reinforcing the idea that love is a universal and essential part of human experience.

Recurring Symbols and Imagery

The poem features recurring symbols and vivid imagery that contribute to its overall message. The "rashes" in the refrain are a symbol of nature's beauty and the simple pleasures of life. The phrase "green grow the rashes" suggests growth and vitality, reflecting the speaker's joyful and lively spirit. The imagery of spending time with loved ones, such as "my arms about my dearie," emphasizes the intimacy and warmth of these moments. The contrast between "war'ly cares" and the simple joys of love highlights the speaker's preference for a life filled with love and companionship over material success.

Conclusion

"Green Grow The Rashes" is a celebration of love, joy, and the simple pleasures of life. Through vivid imagery and a playful tone, Robert Burns emphasizes the importance of love and companionship over worldly pursuits. The poem's recurring symbols and defiant stance against judgment underscore the universal value of love and the wisdom of appreciating life's simple joys. Ultimately, the poem invites readers to embrace the beauty of love and the joy it brings, defying those who might criticize such simple pleasures.