Poem Analysis - On A Dog Of Lord Eglingtons

Initial Impression and Tone

Robert Burns' poem On A Dog Of Lord Eglingtons presents a reflective and somewhat melancholic tone, speaking from the perspective of a dog. The poem begins with a straightforward and honest voice, asserting the dog's virtues and contrasting them with human behavior. The tone shifts subtly to a more philosophical and introspective mood, suggesting a commentary on the nature of humanity and the animal world. The poem's form, a simple and direct narrative, supports its themes of honesty and straightforwardness.

Historical and Authorial Context

Robert Burns, a renowned Scottish poet, often explored themes of social justice and the human condition. His background as a farmer and his experiences with rural life likely influenced his perspective on the natural world and its inhabitants. Burns' empathy for animals and his critique of human behavior are evident in this poem, reflecting his broader social commentary.

Themes of Honesty and Virtue

The poem develops the theme of honesty through the dog's straightforward assertions about its behavior. The dog claims I never barked when out of season, I never bit without a reason, highlighting its adherence to a moral code. This contrasts with human behavior, suggesting that humans often act without reason or virtue. The dog's assertion that We brutes are placed a rank below, Happy for man could he say so, implies a critique of human morality, suggesting that animals might be more virtuous than humans.

Themes of Human Nature and Morality

The poem also explores the theme of human nature and morality. The dog's observations about human behavior, such as insulting weaker brothers and wronging others by force or fraud, serve as a critique of human society. The dog's perspective allows Burns to comment on the flaws and failings of humanity, suggesting that animals might possess a higher moral standing. This theme is reinforced by the dog's humble assertion that it is placed a rank below, implying that humans could learn from the virtues of animals.

Themes of Animal Wisdom

The poem suggests that animals possess a wisdom that humans lack. The dog's reflections on its own behavior and the behavior of humans imply a deeper understanding of morality and virtue. The dog's assertion that it is happy for man could he say so, suggests that animals might be content with their place in the world, unlike humans who often strive for more. This theme is reinforced by the dog's humble and straightforward voice, which contrasts with the complexity and deceit of human behavior.

Symbolism of the Dog

The dog in the poem serves as a symbol of honesty, virtue, and wisdom. Its straightforward assertions about its own behavior and its observations about human behavior highlight its moral standing. The dog's humble assertion that it is placed a rank below, suggests that it possesses a wisdom that humans lack. The dog's perspective allows Burns to comment on the flaws and failings of humanity, suggesting that animals might possess a higher moral standing. The dog's symbolism is reinforced by its straightforward and honest voice, which contrasts with the complexity and deceit of human behavior.

Conclusion

On A Dog Of Lord Eglingtons offers a poignant reflection on the virtues of animals and the failings of humanity. Through the voice of a dog, Burns critiques human behavior and suggests that animals might possess a higher moral standing. The poem's themes of honesty, virtue, and animal wisdom are reinforced by the dog's straightforward and humble voice, which contrasts with the complexity and deceit of human behavior. The poem ultimately serves as a commentary on the nature of humanity and the potential for learning from the natural world.