Scots Ballad
written in 1787
Scots Ballad - form Summary
Ballad Lament Shaped for Singing
Written as a ballad, this poem presents a communal lament for the loss of Scotland (called Albany) to a false usurper. Its simple stanzaic shape and singable rhythm create a public, oral voice that mourns separation across the sea, evokes local places like the Clyde and gardens, and repeatedly expresses yearning to restore the rightful ruler. The poem frames political grievance as personal sorrow—"my heart is wae"—and moves from complaint to a hopeful, collective vow to welcome home the rightful queen with prayer and celebration.
Read Complete AnalysesMy heart is wae and unco wae, To think upon the raging sea, That roars between her gardens green, And th' bonie lass of ALBANIE.- This lovely maid's of noble blood, That ruled Albion's kingdoms three; But Oh, Alas! For her bonie face! They hae wrang'd the lass of ALBANIE!- In the rolling tide of spreading Clyde There sits an isle of high degree; And a town of fame whose princely name Should grace the lass of ALBANIE.- But there is a youth, a witless youth, That fills the place where she should be, We'll send him o-er to his native shore, And bring our ain sweet ALBANIE.- Alas the day, and woe the day, A false Usurper wan the gree, That now commands the towers and lands, The royal right of ALBANIE.- We'll daily pray, we'll nightly pray, On bended knees most ferventlie, That the time may come, with pipe and drum, We'll welcome home fair ALBANIE.-
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