Handsome Nell
Handsome Nell - fact Summary
About Nellie Kirkpatrick
"Handsome Nell" is an early lyric by Robert Burns, published in the 1792 collection Poems, Chiefly in the Scottish Dialect. The poem is traditionally associated with Nellie Kirkpatrick, a young woman Burns knew in his youth; that biographical link frames it as a personal recollection of first love. Burns praises modesty, chastity and simple virtue above mere beauty, describing how Nelly’s character makes her attractive. The tone is sincere and affectionate, presenting an uncomplicated celebration of moral worth as the basis for lasting affection.
Read Complete AnalysesO Once I lov'd a bonnie lass, An' aye I love her still, An' whilst that virtue warms my breast, I'll love my handsome Nell. As bonnie lasses I hae seen, And mony full as braw; But for a modest gracefu' mein, The like I never saw. A bonny lass I will confess, Is pleasant to the e'e, But without some better qualities She's no a lass for me. But Nelly's looks are blythe and sweet, And what is best of a', Her reputation is compleat, And fair without a flaw; She dresses ay sae clean and neat, Both decent and genteel; And then there's something in her gait Gars ony dress look weel. A gaudy dress and gentle air May slightly touch the heart, But it's innocence and modesty That polishes the dart. 'Tis this in Nelly pleases me, 'Tis this enchants my soul; For absolutely in my breast She reigns without controul.
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