To Mr. William Tytler, with the Present of the Bard’s Picture (Poem by Robert Burns)

To Mr. William Tytler, with the Present of the Bard’s Picture

By Robert Burns

Revered defender of beauteous Stuart,

    Of Stuart, a name once respected,

A name, which to love, was once mark of a true heart,

    But now ’tis despis’d and neglected.

Tho’ something like moisture conglobes in my eye,

    Let no one misdeem me disloyal;

A poor friendless wand’rer may well claim a sigh,

    Still more, if that wand’rer were royal.

My fathers that name have rever’d on a throne,

    My fathers have fallen to right it;

Those fathers would spurn their degenerate son,

    That name should he scoffingly slight it.

Still in prayers for King George I most heartily join,

    The Queen and the rest of the gentry,

Be they wise, be they foolish, is nothing of mine;

    Their title’s avow’d by my country.

But why of that epocha make such a fuss,

    That gave us th’ Electoral stem?

If bringing them over was lucky for us,

    I’m sure ’twas as lucky for them.

But loyalty truce! we’re on dangerous ground,

    Who knows how the fashions may alter?

The doctrine, to-day, that is loyalty sound,

    To-morrow may bring us a halter.

I send you a trifle, the head of a bard,

    A trifle scarce worthy your care;

But accept it, good Sir, as a mark of regard,

    Sincere as a saint’s dying prayer.

Now life’s chilly evening dim shades on your eye,

    And ushers the long dreary night;

But you, like the star that athwart gilds the sky,

    Your course to the latest is bright.

Poem Analysis:

Robert Burns's poem "To Mr. William Tytler" is a piece that reflects the complex sentiments of loyalty, respect for heritage, and the changing tides of political allegiance. Through this work, Burns touches on themes of loyalty, the ebb and flow of political ideologies, and the enduring nature of friendship and respect.

Loyalty and Allegiance: The poem begins with a nod to the Stuart lineage, once revered but now fallen out of favor. Burns expresses reverence for the historical name of Stuart, a lineage he associates with loyalty and respect. The change in political climate has shifted the perception of this name, leading to neglect and disdain.

Personal Reflection and Sorrow: Burns reveals a personal connection to the Stuart name, expressing a sense of loss and emotional attachment. He acknowledges the tears in his eyes, signifying both his personal connection to the cause and the broader emotional weight associated with the decline of the Stuarts' reputation.

Political Realities and Pragmatism: Although acknowledging his sympathy towards the Stuart cause, Burns also demonstrates a realistic approach to the shifting political landscape. He conveys a pragmatic acceptance of the reigning monarchs, King George, and the established gentry, recognizing the political reality while not abandoning his personal sentiment.

Historical Context and Caution: Burns delves into the historical context of political changes and the uncertainty of loyalties. He warns about the unpredictability of political fashion, emphasizing the potential dangers of expressing loyalty to a certain cause in a constantly evolving society.

Friendship and Respect: The poem is a gift of a bard's picture presented as a token of respect and friendship to Mr. William Tytler. Burns expresses genuine warmth and regard for Tytler, acknowledging the aging process but also likening his enduring brightness to a star that continues to shine brightly, despite encroaching darkness.

Symbolism and Imagery: Burns uses powerful imagery to convey his emotions, employing tears in his eyes, the dimming evening of life, and the enduring brightness of a star to symbolize the passage of time, the inevitability of change, and the resilience of enduring friendship and loyalty.

In conclusion, "To Mr. William Tytler, with the present of the Bard’s picture" by Robert Burns is a poignant reflection on loyalty, political realities, and the ebb and flow of allegiances. Burns navigates the complex terrain of personal sentiment, political practicality, and the enduring nature of friendship. The poem captures the essence of changing times, the importance of personal connections, and the inevitable evolution of political and social landscapes, while also honoring the resilience of enduring friendships amidst the passage of time.