Poem Analysis - Mary Morison

Initial Impression and Tone

Mary Morison by Robert Burns is a passionate and heartfelt poem that captures the intense emotions of unrequited love. The tone is initially hopeful and longing, but it shifts to a more pleading and desperate mood as the speaker's anguish deepens. The poem is written in a conversational style, making it accessible and relatable to a broad audience. Burns' use of Scottish dialect adds a layer of authenticity and cultural richness. The poem's form, with its stanzas and rhyme scheme, supports the narrative flow and emotional progression.

Themes of Love and Longing

The primary theme of the poem is the intense, almost obsessive love the speaker feels for Mary Morison. This love is so consuming that it makes the speaker feel like a slave, enduring hardship just for the chance to see Mary's smiles and glances. The speaker's love is so powerful that it makes other women seem insignificant, as seen in the lines "Tho' this was fair, and that was braw, And yon the toast of a' the town, I sigh'd, and said among them a', 'Ye are na Mary Morison.'". This theme is developed through vivid imagery and a tone that shifts from longing to desperation.

Themes of Desperation and Pleading

Another prominent theme is the speaker's desperation and pleading. The speaker is willing to die for Mary and is pleading for her love or at least her pity. This theme is developed through the speaker's direct appeals to Mary, such as "Oh, Mary, canst thou wreck his peace, Wha for thy sake wad gladly die?" and "If love for love thou wilt na gie, At least be pity to me shown". The use of rhetorical questions and direct addresses to Mary emphasizes the speaker's desperation and the intensity of his feelings.

Recurring Symbols and Imagery

The poem is rich with vivid imagery and recurring symbols. The "window" where Mary is seen can symbolize a barrier or a point of connection between the speaker and Mary. The "trysted hour" suggests a prearranged meeting time, emphasizing the speaker's longing for Mary's attention. The "dance" and the "lighted ha'" (house) provide a social context, highlighting the speaker's preoccupation with Mary even in the midst of social activities. The "trembling string" could symbolize the speaker's emotional state, as music often reflects inner turmoil. The "misers treasure" is a metaphor for the speaker's belief that Mary's smiles and glances are more valuable than material wealth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mary Morison is a powerful exploration of unrequited love and the desperation it can cause. Through vivid imagery, direct addresses, and a shifting tone, Burns captures the intensity of the speaker's feelings. The poem's cultural context and use of Scottish dialect add depth and authenticity. The recurring symbols and vivid images contribute to the overall message of the speaker's consuming love and desperation. The poem's significance lies in its universal portrayal of the pain and longing that can accompany unrequited love, making it a timeless piece of literature.