Poem Analysis - Sutors O Selkirk

A Toast to the Common Man

Robert Burns' "Sutors o' Selkirk" is a spirited and patriotic Scottish poem. It's a boisterous celebration of the "Sutors" (shoemakers) of Selkirk and the "lads o' the Forest," contrasting them with the Earl o' Hume and the "Merse" (a district in Scotland). The poem's tone is one of enthusiastic pride and defiance, fostering a sense of camaraderie and regional loyalty. There are no major shifts in mood, the poem maintains its celebratory tone throughout.

Historical Echoes in Verse

While the poem doesn't explicitly detail a historical event, the references to specific places and figures suggest an underlying context of regional rivalries and possibly past conflicts. The mention of an Earl and the contrast with common tradesmen such as shoemakers may allude to tensions between the aristocracy and the working class, a common theme in Burns' work. Robert Burns was a vocal champion of the common people, which gives possible context to his choice of praising the Sutors while dismissing the Earl of Hume "down." This would make the poem more than just a cheerful gathering song, and imbue it with sociopolitical commentary.

Themes of Loyalty and Regional Pride

The poem primarily explores the themes of loyalty and regional pride. The repeated phrase "Its up wi' the Sutors o' Selkirk" serves as a rallying cry, emphasizing the speaker's unwavering support for his local community. This theme is further reinforced by the contrast with the "Earl o' Hume" and the "Merse," who are relegated "down" or even to "the deil," highlighting the speaker's preference for Selkirk and its people. The poem also implicitly touches upon the theme of social class. By celebrating the shoemakers, Burns elevates the status of ordinary laborers, contrasting them with the aristocratic Earl. The inclusive toast "to a' the braw ladies/That wear the single sol'd shoon" further broadens the circle of those celebrated, suggesting a value placed on simplicity and practicality. A final theme is defiance, the willingness of the speaker to stand proudly for those near to him, and against those who have been or might be perceived as adversaries.

Symbols of Community and Opposition

The "Sutors o' Selkirk" themselves serve as a symbol of the working-class community and local pride. They are not just shoemakers; they represent the spirit of the town. In contrast, the "Earl o' Hume" and the "Merse" act as symbols of opposition or perhaps outdated feudal power structures. The "single sol'd shoon" (shoes) could be interpreted as a symbol of practicality and commonality, representing the ordinary people to whom the speaker feels a kinship. There is no complex imagery, or highly figurative symbols. The overall meaning is relatively transparent.

A Lasting Testament to Scottish Identity

In conclusion, "Sutors o' Selkirk" is a short but powerful poem that encapsulates the spirit of regional pride and loyalty. Through simple yet effective language and imagery, Burns celebrates the common people of Selkirk, contrasting them with figures of authority. The poem's enduring appeal lies in its boisterous and defiant tone, making it a timeless expression of Scottish identity and a testament to the importance of community. The poem's form itself is a simple song structure, reinforcing the idea that it's intended for communal singing and celebration.