Poem Analysis - Sketch

Robert Burns's "Sketch" is a vibrant celebration of poetry, particularly pastoral poetry rooted in Scottish identity. The poem opens with a note of caution about the pitfalls of pursuing poetic fame, then transitions into an exploration of poetic legacies and the qualities of great verse. Ultimately, it serves as an enthusiastic endorsement of a contemporary poet, Allan Ramsay, positioning him as a worthy successor to the classical tradition while remaining distinctly Scottish. The poem's tone is admiring and playful, infused with national pride and a genuine love for the art form.

The Perils and Promises of Poetic Pursuit

The poem begins by acknowledging the struggles and sacrifices often associated with a life dedicated to poetry. Burns personifies "Poesie" as a "nymph reserv'd," suggesting that inspiration is elusive and demanding. The lines, "In chase o' thee, what crowds hae swerv'd / Frae Common Sense, or sunk ennerv'd / 'Mang heaps o' clavers," depict the potential for misguided ambition and creative failure. The phrase "joes hae starv'd" emphasizes the precarious existence faced by many poets. This sets a realistic, albeit somewhat humorous, backdrop against which the subsequent celebration of poetic achievement unfolds.

A Lineage of Literary Greats

A central theme is the idea of artistic lineage and influence. Burns name-drops a diverse group of literary giants, including Homer, Milton, Aeschylus, Shakespeare, Pope, Barbauld, Sappho, Theocritus, and Virgil. He suggests that later poets build upon the foundations laid by their predecessors. For example, he states, "In Homer's craft Jock Milton thrives; / Eschylus' pen Will Shakespeare drives," explicitly acknowledging the debt that English poets owe to classical Greek literature. However, Burns also subtly critiques those who merely imitate without adding originality. He calls out "hunders, nameless wretches, / That ape their betters" revealing his disdain for shallow imitation. This establishes a standard of excellence against which he will measure Allan Ramsay.

Celebrating Scottish Identity in Verse

The poem takes a decisive turn towards celebrating Scottish artistic expression. Burns laments that few have successfully attempted the "Shepherd-sang," a distinctly pastoral form. He longs for a poet who can "Blaw sweetly in his native air / And rural grace," suggesting a desire for verse that authentically reflects the Scottish landscape and culture. This culminates in the enthusiastic introduction of Allan Ramsay as the poet who fulfills this aspiration: "Yes! there is ane; a Scotish callan! / There's ane: come forrit, honest Allan!" The use of Scottish dialect – "callan," "jouk behint the hallan," "chiel" – further reinforces the poem's emphasis on national identity and the importance of celebrating local talent.

Nature as the Wellspring of Authentic Poetry

Vivid imagery of the Scottish landscape abounds in the latter half of the poem. Burns describes "gowany glens," "burnie strays," "hazelly shaws and braes," and "hawthorns gray," creating a sense of idyllic rural beauty. These images are not merely decorative; they represent the source of Ramsay's poetic inspiration and the authenticity of his verse. Burns contrasts this with the "gowden stream thro' myrtles" traditionally associated with classical pastoral poetry, implying that Ramsay's work offers a fresh, Caledonian perspective. The image of "bonie lasses bleach their claes" offers a glimpse into everyday life, further grounding Ramsay's poetry in the realities of Scottish culture.

A Lasting Legacy

"Sketch" is more than just a tribute to Allan Ramsay; it's a testament to the enduring power of poetry and its ability to capture the essence of a particular place and culture. By positioning Ramsay within a lineage of literary giants while simultaneously emphasizing his unique Scottish voice, Burns elevates him to a position of lasting significance. The final lines, "The teeth o' Time may gnaw Tamtallan, / But thou's for ever," assert that Ramsay's poetry will endure, solidifying his place in the literary canon. The poem ultimately champions the importance of celebrating both the classical tradition and the unique voices that emerge from specific cultural contexts.