Poem Analysis - Theres Hair Ont

A Humorous Lament of Overgrowth

Robert Burns' "There's hair on't" is a lighthearted and humorous poem that uses exaggerated imagery to depict a farmer's struggle with an overgrown piece of land. The tone is initially frustrated, bordering on despair, but quickly shifts to a more determined and even slightly comical perspective. The poem's accessibility lies in its simple language and relatable theme of overcoming obstacles, albeit in a rather unique and memorable way. The poem speaks to persistence in the face of agricultural challenges.

Burns and the Rural Life

Robert Burns was a Scottish poet and lyricist, widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland. His work often celebrated rural life, Scottish culture, and the struggles of the common person. He was a farmer himself for a time. Understanding Burns' background helps appreciate the authenticity of the poem's depiction of farming challenges and the humor derived from a farmer's frustrations. The poem resonates with a sense of shared experience, common to those who labor the land.

Nature's Obstacles and Determined Resolve

One central theme of the poem is the struggle against nature's obstacles. The "hair," representing dense vegetation, acts as a significant impediment to the farmer's work. This obstacle is initially presented as overwhelming, leaving the speaker "maist haed perish'd, fit an' horse." However, the poem quickly transitions to a theme of determined resolve. The farmer's plan to "plant a stake into the flowe" and "cowe the hair on't" demonstrates a commitment to overcoming the challenge. The final lines express a farmer's solution to a frustrating problem.

The Hair as a Symbol of Overgrowth

The most potent symbol in the poem is undoubtedly the "hair." It represents the overwhelming overgrowth that hinders the farmer's progress. The exaggeration, with "thretty thrave an' mair on't," turns the obstacle into a comical absurdity. The "hair" functions on two levels: literally, as excessive vegetation, and figuratively, as any challenge that seems insurmountable. The speaker's description of it as 'sic a crap o' hair on't' portrays the extent of the problem and the speaker's overwhelmed reaction.

Conclusion: Triumph over Frustration

"There's hair on't" is a testament to the human spirit's ability to find humor and determination in the face of adversity. The poem, while seemingly simple, provides insight into the challenges of agricultural life and the importance of resilience. Burns uses exaggerated imagery and a shift in tone to create a memorable and relatable portrait of a farmer determined to conquer an overgrown field. The poem ultimately celebrates the triumph of perseverance over frustration.