Poem Analysis - Here Awa There Awa

Robert Burns' poem Here awa', there awa' is a poignant exploration of love, longing, and the passage of time. The poem's tone is initially wistful and hopeful, shifting to a more somber and reflective mood as it progresses. The speaker's emotions are deeply personal, reflecting the universal experiences of love and loss. The poem's form, with its repetitive phrases and rhythmic structure, enhances the sense of longing and anticipation.

Themes of Love and Longing

The central theme of the poem is the speaker's deep love and longing for her beloved, Willie. The repetition of Here awa', there awa' creates a sense of restless wandering and anticipation, reflecting the speaker's yearning for her lover's return. The phrase haud awa' hame, meaning hold on your way home, emphasizes the speaker's eagerness for Willie's return. The speaker's desire for reassurance that Willie remains the same, my ae only deary, highlights the intensity of her love and her fear of change.

The Passage of Time and Nature

The poem also explores the theme of the passage of time and the cyclical nature of the seasons. The speaker welcomes the arrival of summer, Simmer, as a symbol of renewal and hope. The contrast between the cold winter and the warm summer underscores the speaker's emotional journey from despair to hope. The natural imagery of storms, breezes, and billows serves to emphasize the speaker's emotional turmoil and her longing for her lover's return.

Symbolism of the Sea

The sea is a recurring symbol in the poem, representing both the distance between the speaker and her lover and the emotional depth of their relationship. The wide roaring main serves as a barrier between them, but also as a metaphor for the vastness of their love. The speaker's wish for the sea to flow between them if Willie is faithless suggests her desire for a clear, unobstructed view of her lover's intentions. The sea's dual nature as both a barrier and a connector highlights the complexity of the speaker's emotions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Here awa', there awa' is a deeply personal and emotional exploration of love, longing, and the passage of time. Through vivid imagery and symbolic language, Burns captures the universal experiences of love and loss, offering a poignant reflection on the human condition. The poem's recurring themes of love, nature, and the sea serve to underscore the speaker's emotional journey, ultimately revealing the enduring power of love and hope.