Poem Analysis - John Come Kiss Me Now

Initial Impression and Tone

Robert Burns' poem "John come kiss me now" is a lively and playful exploration of love and affection. The tone is intimate and inviting, with a sense of urgency and longing expressed through the repeated pleas for John to kiss the speaker. The poem shifts between moments of direct address to John and reflections on the nature of courtship, maintaining a consistent mood of affectionate desire.

Historical and Cultural Context

Robert Burns, a renowned Scottish poet, often drew from the folk traditions and rural life of his homeland. This poem reflects the straightforward and earthy language characteristic of Burns' work, which was influenced by the Scottish dialect and the cultural norms of his time. The poem's themes of love and courtship are universal, but the specific expressions and attitudes are rooted in the Scottish cultural context of the late 18th century.

Themes of Love and Desire

The central theme of the poem is love and desire, expressed through the speaker's urgent pleas for John to kiss her. The repetition of "O John, come kiss me now" emphasizes the immediacy and intensity of her feelings. The use of the term "luve" (love) and the endearing tone convey a deep emotional connection between the speaker and John. The poem's theme of love is further developed through the contrast between different styles of courtship, highlighting the speaker's preference for a more direct and passionate approach.

Themes of Courtship and Authenticity

The poem also explores the theme of courtship and the various ways people express their affection. The speaker contrasts those who "court and compliment" with those who "kiss and daut" (tease), suggesting a spectrum of courtship behaviors. The speaker's preference for a more genuine and straightforward approach is evident in her declaration that she will "mak o' my gudeman" (make of her husband), emphasizing her desire for authenticity in her relationship. This theme is reinforced through the repetition of the phrase "O some will court and compliment," which underscores the speaker's rejection of insincere or superficial courtship.

Recurring Symbols and Imagery

The poem's recurring symbols and imagery center around the act of kissing, which serves as a metaphor for intimacy and connection. The repeated pleas for John to kiss the speaker highlight the physical and emotional desire at the heart of the poem. The imagery of "hause in ithers arms" (hugging in each other's arms) further emphasizes the speaker's longing for physical closeness. These symbols contribute to the overall message of the poem, which is a celebration of authentic and passionate love. The ambiguity of the phrase "it is nae faute" (it is no fault) invites interpretation, suggesting that the speaker's desire for John is natural and unapologetic.

Conclusion and Significance

The poem "John come kiss me now" is a vivid and heartfelt expression of love and desire, rooted in the cultural and linguistic traditions of Scotland. Through its use of **repetition**, **imagery**, and **symbolism**, the poem conveys the speaker's urgent and genuine longing for her beloved. The themes of love, courtship, and authenticity are interwoven to create a powerful exploration of human connection. The poem's significance lies in its celebration of straightforward and passionate love, which remains universally relatable across time and culture.