Poem Analysis - O Steer Her Up

Robert Burns' poem "O Steer Her Up" presents a lively and somewhat humorous take on courtship and the pursuit of love. The poem's tone is playful and lighthearted, with a touch of wisdom and resignation. It shifts from encouragement to acceptance, reflecting the complexities of romantic relationships. The use of Scottish dialect adds a rustic charm and authenticity to the poem, making it feel personal and relatable. The poem is structured in a way that supports its conversational and advice-giving nature, with repetitive phrases and a rhythmic flow.

Historical and Cultural Context

Robert Burns, a renowned Scottish poet, often wrote about the rural life and customs of his time. His works are deeply rooted in the Scottish cultural landscape, reflecting the language, traditions, and social norms of 18th-century Scotland. The poem's use of Scottish dialect and references to local customs, such as the mill, provide a glimpse into the everyday life of the period. Burns' familiarity with the struggles and joys of rural life informs the poem's themes of love, persistence, and acceptance.

Themes of Persistence and Acceptance

The poem explores the theme of persistence in the face of rejection. The speaker advises the listener to keep pursuing the woman he loves, using phrases like "O steer her up, an' haud her gaun" and "gin she winna tak a man, E'en let her tak her will, jo." These lines suggest a determined effort to win her over, even if she initially resists. The use of the word "steer" implies guiding or directing, reflecting the speaker's belief in the power of persistence. However, the poem also emphasizes acceptance, as seen in the lines "Then leave the lassie till her fate, And time nae langer spill, jo." This shift indicates a recognition of the limits of one's control over another person's feelings, highlighting the importance of knowing when to let go.

Themes of Love and Resilience

The poem delves into the theme of love, portraying it as a complex and sometimes challenging endeavor. The speaker's advice to "shore her wi' a gentle kiss" and "ca' anither gill, jo" suggests a tender and romantic approach, but also a willingness to engage in playful banter. The use of the word "gill" refers to a small measure of ale, indicating a social and convivial setting. The poem's portrayal of love is realistic and down-to-earth, acknowledging the potential for rejection and the need for resilience. The speaker's advice to "Ne'er break your heart for ae rebute" underscores the importance of emotional resilience in the face of romantic setbacks.

Symbolism and Imagery

The poem employs vivid imagery and symbolism to convey its themes. The mill, mentioned in the first stanza, can be seen as a symbol of labor and perseverance, reflecting the speaker's advice to keep pursuing the woman he loves. The "gentle kiss" and the "gill" of ale represent the tools of courtship, emphasizing the importance of tenderness and social interaction in romantic relationships. The phrase "let her flyte her fill, jo" uses the word "flyte," which means to scold or quarrel, to acknowledge the potential for conflict and disagreement in love. This imagery underscores the poem's realistic and pragmatic approach to romance, highlighting the need for patience and understanding in the face of challenges.

Conclusion

"O Steer Her Up" by Robert Burns offers a candid and relatable exploration of love, persistence, and acceptance. Through its use of Scottish dialect, vivid imagery, and thematic shifts, the poem provides a nuanced portrayal of the complexities of romantic relationships. The poem's advice to keep pursuing love while also knowing when to let go reflects a deep understanding of the human experience, making it a timeless and universal piece of literature. The poem's significance lies in its ability to capture the essence of love's challenges and rewards, offering readers a glimpse into the enduring power of human connection.