On Jessy Lewars
written in 1796
On Jessy Lewars - fact Summary
About Jessy Lewars
Written in 1796, this short lyric by Robert Burns addresses Jessy Lewars, a woman believed to have been his romantic interest. The speaker contrasts worldly and exotic images with Jessy’s singular power to wound and to bless, framing her as an idealized, almost heavenly figure. Phrases like "Jessy did not die" function more as exaltation than literal fact, turning grief and loss into enduring praise. The poem is a personal, commemorative tribute blending affection, admiration, and consolation.
Read Complete AnalysesTalk not to me of savages From Afric's burning sun, No savage e'er can rend my heart As, Jessy, thou hast done. But Jessy's lovely hand in mine, A Mutual faith to plight, Not even to view the heavenly choir Would be so blest a sight. Fill me with the rosy wine, Call a toast - a toast divine; Give the Poet's darling flame, Lovely Jessy be the name; Then thou mayest freely boast, Thou hast given a peerless toast. Say, sages, what's the charm on earth Can turn Death's dart aside? It is not purity and worth, Else Jessy had not died. But rarely seen since Nature's birth, The natives of the sky; Yet still one seraph's left on earth, For Jessy did not die.
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