Poem Analysis - The Hue And Cry Of John Lewars

Introduction: A Mock Outcry of Love

Robert Burns's "The Hue and Cry of John Lewars" is a playfully ironic poem disguised as a public warning. The poem begins with dramatic pronouncements of theft and murder, creating a sense of urgency and danger. However, this initial tone quickly shifts as the speaker, John Lewars, reveals that the "thief" is a woman who has stolen his heart. The poem then evolves into a humorous and ultimately endearing portrait of infatuation, showcasing the speaker's willingness to be "caught" by the woman he accuses.

Burns's Worldly Sensibilities

While specific historical context regarding John Lewars himself is limited, it is important to consider Burns's background as a Scottish poet known for his romantic sensibilities and keen observations of human nature. Burns often explored themes of love, desire, and the complexities of human relationships. His poems frequently employ wit and humor to examine these themes. "The Hue and Cry" fits neatly within this framework, demonstrating Burns's ability to blend playful language with sincere emotion.

The Sweet Theft of the Heart

One of the poem's central themes is the paradoxical nature of love as both a source of joy and potential pain. The speaker uses the language of crime – "thief," "murderer," "hazard" – to describe the woman's effect on him. He claims she "whipt off my poor heart" and that his "peace felt her murderous dart." This exaggerated language underscores the intensity of his emotions. However, the playful tone suggests that he experiences this "theft" not as a genuine loss, but as a pleasurable surrender. The poem cleverly inverts the expected response to such a crime, ultimately celebrating the captivating power of love.

Witchcraft and Allure

Imagery plays a crucial role in shaping the poem's themes. The description of the woman as a witch, dealing with "wizards and books," adds an element of mystique and danger. The image of her "witchery" killing "in her looks" emphasizes her alluring power and the speaker's vulnerability to her charms. This imagery connects to a long tradition of portraying women as both beautiful and potentially dangerous figures. It suggests that the speaker is aware of the risks involved in loving this woman, yet he is irresistibly drawn to her nonetheless.

The Thrill of the Chase (and Being Caught)

The ending of the poem provides a final twist, subverting the initial sense of alarm. The speaker plans to "catch her" while she is "sleeping, undrest, in the dark, all alone." However, his exclamation, "Good lord! The dear THIEF HOW I'LL CATCH HER!" reveals that his intention is not to punish her, but to further entangle himself in her spell. The capitalization and exclamation points emphasize the playful excitement he feels at the prospect of being "caught" by her in return. This ending transforms the poem from a warning into a declaration of love and desire, highlighting the speaker's willing submission to the woman's captivating influence.

Conclusion: A Heart's Willing Prisoner

"The Hue and Cry of John Lewars" is a witty and insightful exploration of love's power. Through its use of dramatic irony, playful language, and vivid imagery, the poem transforms a supposed tale of crime into a celebration of infatuation. The speaker's willingness to be "caught" by the woman he accuses ultimately reveals the delightful paradox of love, where surrender can be the sweetest form of captivity. The poem's enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the exhilarating, and sometimes bewildering, experience of being completely captivated by another person.