Theniel Menzies Bonie Mary
written in 1788
Theniel Menzies Bonie Mary - context Summary
Written in 1788
Composed in 1788, this short Scots song records a convivial, rural scene by the Brig o' Dye where revelers praise "bonie Mary." The poem recounts Mary’s attractive features and a playful episode in which Charlie Grigor loses his plaid for kissing her, provoking dance and mock complaint. Its tone is folk-like and celebratory, focused on local characters, social ritual, and a light romantic mishap rather than introspection or moralizing. The recurring chorus reinforces community storytelling and the song’s oral, convivial character.
Read Complete AnalysesIn comin by the brig o' Dye, At Darlet we a blink did tarry; As day was dawin in the sky We drank a health to bonie Mary. Theniel Menzies' bonie Mary, Theniel Menzies' bonie Mary, Charlie Grigor tint his plaidie, Kissin' Theniel's bonie Mary. Her een sae bright, her brow sae white, Her haffet locks as brown's a berry; And aye they dimpl't wi' a smile, The rosy cheeks o' bonie Mary. Theniel Menzies' bonie Mary, Theniel Menzies' bonie Mary, Charlie Grigor tint his plaidie, Kissin' Theniel's bonie Mary. We lap and danc'd the lee-lang day, Till Piper lads were wae and weary; But Charlie gat the spring to pay For kissin Theniel's bonie Mary. Theniel Menzies' bonie Mary, Theniel Menzies' bonie Mary, Charlie Grigor tint his plaidie, Kissin' Theniel's bonie Mary.
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