O Kenmure's on and Awa , Willie
O Kenmure's on and Awa , Willie - meaning Summary
A Loyal Clan Toast
This short song celebrates Kenmure's lord and his followers with repeated toasts and refrains. It praises their courage, loyalty, and readiness for battle, portraying them as fearless, true-hearted men whose fame will endure whether they live or die. The chorus-like structure emphasizes communal support and wartime solidarity, while the closing stanzas mix hope for a triumphant return with a personal note of affection for a beloved compared to a white rose. Overall, the poem is a rousing loyalist tribute that blends collective martial pride with private tenderness.
Read Complete AnalysesO Kenmure's on and awa, Willie, O Kenmure's on and awa: An' Kenmure's lord's the bravest lord That ever Galloway saw. Success to Kenmure's band, Willie! Success to Kenmure's band! There's no a heart that fears a Whig, That rides by kenmure's hand. Here's Kenmure's health in wine, Willie! Here's Kenmure's health in wine! There's ne'er a coward o' Kenmure's blude, Nor yet o' Gordon's line. O Kenmure's lads are men, Willie, O Kenmure's lads are men; Their hearts and swords are metal true, And that their foes shall ken. They'll live or die wi' fame, Willie; They'll live or die wi' fame; But sune, wi' sounding victorie, May Kenmure's lord come hame! Here's him that's far awa, Willie! Here's him that's far awa! And here's the flower that I loe best, The rose that's like the snaw.
Feel free to be first to leave comment.