On Turning Her Up In Her Nest With The Plough November 1785: A Poetic Masterpiece

November 1785, a month that witnessed an incident so profound that it inspired a renowned poet to create one of his most celebrated works. This poem, titled "On Turning Her Up In Her Nest With The Plough," captures the essence of nature's beauty and the hardships faced by mankind. Join us on a journey through this exquisite piece of literature, as we unravel its layers and delve into the beauty of Robert Burns' poetic genius.

Robert Burns, the national poet of Scotland, is known for his ability to capture emotions and moments in his works, making them timeless and relatable. "On Turning Her Up In Her Nest With The Plough" is a prime example of Burns' exceptional talent as a poet. It takes the readers on a sensory voyage, allowing them to experience the stunning imagery and deep emotions conveyed through his words.

The poem begins with the lines:

To A Mouse: On turning her up in her Nest with the Plough, November, 1785

by Barclay Burness (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	24609 KB
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	42 pages

FREE

Wee, sleekit, cow'rin, tim'rous beastie, O, what a panic's in thy breastie!

Thou need na start awa sae hasty

Wi' bickering brattle!

These lines immediately draw the reader's attention and set the tone for the entire poem. Burns uses vivid descriptions and adjectives to personify the mouse, evoking sympathy and empathy from the readers. The use of Scottish dialect adds a unique charm to the poem, immersing the audience in the rich cultural heritage of the poet's homeland.

The central theme of "On Turning Her Up In Her Nest With The Plough" lies in the interconnectedness of nature and man's actions. Burns masterfully explores the balance between progress and destruction, emphasizing the need for humans to be mindful of their impact on the natural world. This delicate balance is exemplified through the tragedy of the mouse's nest being destroyed by the plough.

The poem not only showcases Burns' poetic prowess but also highlights his philosophical outlook on life. It urges the readers to reflect on their own actions and the consequences they may have on others. Through the mouse's plight, Burns reminds us of the fragility of life and the importance of compassion and empathy towards all beings, no matter how seemingly insignificant.

As the poem progresses, Burns beautifully addresses the innate desire for survival and the instinctual fear that governs every living being. The lines:

I'm truly sorry Man's dominion

Has broken Nature's social union,

An' justifies that ill opinion

Which makes thee startle

reveal the remorse felt by the poet about the intrusion of man into the mouse's habitat. Burns acknowledges the inherent hierarchies of the natural world while lamenting the damage caused by mankind's actions. He conveys a sense of guilt and remorse, urging readers to reflect on their own treatment of nature and the consequences it may have on the delicate balance of life.

The closing lines of the poem capture the essence of the entire masterpiece, leaving readers with a lasting impression:

Still thou art blest, compared wi' me!

The present only toucheth thee:

But och! I backward cast my e'e

On prospects drear!

These lines evoke a deep sense of melancholy and introspection. The mouse, despite losing its nest, is still considered fortunate compared to the poet. Burns highlights the burden of human consciousness, the tendency to dwell on past mistakes and future uncertainties. This introspective leaves readers contemplating their own lives and the fleeting nature of happiness.

Overall, "On Turning Her Up In Her Nest With The Plough" is a profound and thought-provoking poem that resonates with readers on multiple levels. Through vivid imagery, emotional depth, and philosophical undertones, Robert Burns masterfully crafts a timeless piece of literature that stands as a testament to his poetic genius. It serves as a reminder for humanity to appreciate the delicate balance of nature, to be mindful of our actions, and to nurture empathy and compassion for all beings.

So, take a moment to immerse yourself in the profound words of Robert Burns and let the beauty of "On Turning Her Up In Her Nest With The Plough" awaken your senses.

To A Mouse: On turning her up in her Nest with the Plough, November, 1785

by Barclay Burness (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	24609 KB
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	42 pages

FREE

‘To A Mouse’

Roberts Burns' poem is explained, translated and illustrated by Barclay Burness.

Barclay Burness lives in Scotland and is very proud to be a direct descendant of Walter Burness - the same Grandfather as Robert Burns.

There are 3 sections within this book.

1
The complete poem as published in, ‘Poems Chiefly in the Scottish Dialect’ from the Kilmarnock Edition, July 1786 by Robert Burns.

2Background influences on Robert, during his life up to this point, which would have influenced him to write this poem.

3Explanation of each verse of the poem.The poem is repeated with harder words underlined in red with the meaning alongside. This is followed by a translation of the poem underneath.