A Poet's Welcome To His Love Begotten Daughter: Stanzas 7 and 8

“A Poet’s Welcome To His Love Begotten Daughter: Stanzas 7 and 8” - Overview

Context and Background:

  • Stanzas 7 and 8 of “A Poet’s Welcome To His Love Begotten Daughter” by Robert Burns continue the heartfelt address to his newborn daughter, Elizabeth.
  • In these stanzas, Burns intensifies his criticism of society’s hypocrisy and outlines his hopes for his daughter despite societal judgement.

Themes and Exploration:

  • Criticism of Social Norms: Burns underscores the notion of societal hypocrisy, lambasting the judgement and scorn that his daughter may face due to her illegitimacy.
  • Parental Aspirations: Despite the societal judgement, Burns’ affection towards ‘Dear Bought Bess’ is unwavering as he dreams of a blissful future for her, away from the societal hypocrisies.

Character Examination:

  • Burns’ character in these stanzas often swings between being a loving, optimistic father and a disgruntled critic of societal norms.
  • Elizabeth remains the centrepiece of the poem, symbolising innocence and a beacon of hope amidst societal dissent.

Imagery and Symbolism:

  • Burns employs robust imagery and satirical representation to criticise societal judgement, equating the so-called ‘virtuous’ personalities in society to a sneak or to a man hiding behind his borrowed principles.
  • Symbolism plays a pivotal role in these stanzas as he highlights ‘poverty’s unconquerable barriers’, indicating societal prejudice but also alluding to his own struggles.

Language and Tone:

  • The use of Scots dialect continues, adding richness and authenticity to the poem.
  • A tone of defiance against societal judgement is more pronounced in these stanzas, asserting Burns’ rebellious standpoint.

Poetic Devices:

  • Satire is a key device employed in these stanzas, an effective tool in mocking and criticising societal pretences.
  • Burns’ use of alliteration and assonance, such as in ‘proud, parental, partial feeling’ and ‘heap on more distress’, heightens the emotion and rhythmic quality of the poem.