Poem Analysis - As I Walkd By Mysel

A Solitary Conversation: Introduction

Robert Burns's "As I Walk'd By Mysel" is a short, sharp poem that encapsulates a moment of stark self-reflection. The poem's tone begins with a sense of loneliness and perhaps even self-pity but quickly shifts towards a defiant independence. It's a miniature drama played out within the speaker's mind, exploring the universal experience of feeling alone and the subsequent assertion of self-reliance.

Burns and the Bardic Tradition: Background

Robert Burns, a national poet of Scotland, often explored themes of common life, social injustice, and personal emotion in his work. While this particular poem doesn't directly engage with social commentary, it does reflect a sense of the individual standing apart, a theme that resonates with Burns's own life and his commitment to representing the experiences of ordinary people. The use of Scots dialect also grounds the poem in a specific cultural context, emphasizing the speaker's identity.

Isolation, Self-Pity, and Independence: Themes

One dominant theme is isolation. The poem opens with the speaker literally walking "by myself," setting the stage for an internal dialogue born out of loneliness. This feeling is reinforced by the bleak declaration, "There's nobody cares for thee." However, the poem doesn't remain mired in self-pity. A second theme emerges: self-pity. The speaker acknowledges the potential for feeling sorry for oneself. But this is quickly superseded by the final theme of independence. The speaker's resolute reply, "I'll look to mysel, and I'll think o' mysel, / And I care for nobodie," marks a turning point. The speaker actively chooses self-reliance, rejecting the initial sense of abandonment and embracing a fierce individuality.

"Mysel" as Symbol: Image Analysis

The recurring word "mysel" acts as a central symbol in the poem. It's more than just a pronoun; it represents the speaker's internal world, divided and then unified. Initially, "mysel" is presented as a source of negative reinforcement ("There's nobody cares for thee"). But ultimately, "mysel" becomes the source of strength and self-sufficiency. The dialogue between the different aspects of the self highlights the internal struggle to find meaning and value in a world that may seem indifferent.

The Power of Self-Reliance: Conclusion

"As I Walk'd By Mysel" is a powerful testament to the human capacity for self-reliance. While the poem acknowledges the pain of isolation, it ultimately celebrates the individual's ability to find strength within themselves. The speaker's journey from feeling uncared for to embracing independence is a resonant message, reminding us that even in the face of loneliness, we have the power to define our own worth and forge our own path. The poem's enduring appeal lies in its simple yet profound exploration of the human condition, capturing a moment of vulnerability and transformation with remarkable clarity.