The Heron Ballads (Poem by Robert Burns)

The Heron Ballads

Ballad First

By Robert Burns

(1)

Whom will you send to London town,

    To Parliament and a’ that?

Or wha in a’ the country round

    The best deserves to fa’ that?

            For a’ that, and a’ that;

            Thro Galloway and a’ that;

            Where is the laird or belted knight

            That best deserves to fa’ that?

(2)

Wha sees Kerroughtree’s open yett,

    And wha is’t never saw that?

Wha ever wi’ Kerroughtree meets

    And has a doubt of a’ that?

            For a’ that, and a’ that,

            Here’s Heron yet for a’ that,

            The independent patriot,

            The honest man, an’ a’ that.

(3)

Tho’ wit and worth in either sex,

    St. Mary’s Isle can shaw that;

Wi’ dukes and lords let Selkirk mix,

    And weel does Selkirk fa’ that.

            For a’ that, and a’ that,

            Here’s Heron yet for a’ that!

            The independent commoner

            Shall be the man for a’ that.

(4)

But why should we to nobles jouk,

    And it’s against the law that;

For why, a lord may be a gouk,

    Wi’ ribbon, star, an’ a’ that.

            For a’ that, an’ a’ that,

            Here’s Heron yet for a’ that!

            A lord may be a lousy loun,

            Wi’ ribbon, star, an’ a’ that.

(5)

A beardless boy comes o’er the hills,

    Wi’ uncle’s purse an’ a’ that;

But we’ll hae ane frae ‘mang oursels,

    A man we ken, an’ a’ that.

            For a’ that, an’ a’ that,

            Here’s Heron yet for a’ that!

            For we’re not to be bought an’ sold

            Like naigs, an’ nowt, an’ a’ that.

(6)

Then let us drink the Stewartry,

    Kerroughtree’s laird, an’ a’ that,

Our representative to be,

    For weel he’s worthy a’ that.

            For a’ that, an’ a’ that,

            Here’s Heron yet for a’ that,

            A House of Commons such as he,

            They would be blest that saw that.

Poem Analysis:

"The Heron Ballads" by Robert Burns consists of six short ballads that celebrate the virtues of Robert Heron, an independent-minded and honest man whom Burns believed was deserving of representing his constituency in Parliament. The ballads are characterized by their straightforward language, rhythmic structure, and satirical commentary on the political landscape of Burns' time.

Questioning Authority and Privilege: In the first ballad, Burns questions the legitimacy of political power and asks who truly deserves to represent the people in Parliament. He challenges the notion that only the wealthy and titled are fit for such roles, advocating for a candidate who embodies integrity and independence.

Praising Heron's Integrity: The second ballad praises Heron's integrity and honesty, contrasting him with the corrupt and self-serving politicians of the time. Burns highlights Heron's commitment to serving the people of his constituency, regardless of his social status or connections.

Rejecting Aristocratic Privilege: In the third ballad, Burns emphasizes the importance of meritocracy over aristocratic privilege. He argues that individuals like Heron, who demonstrate intelligence and integrity, are more deserving of political representation than those who inherit titles and wealth.

Satirical Critique of Nobility: The fourth ballad satirizes the idea that nobility automatically confers wisdom and virtue. Burns suggests that many lords are inept and unworthy of their titles, mocking the pomp and ceremony associated with aristocratic rank.

Championing Local Representation: The fifth ballad celebrates the importance of local representation and rejects the idea of outside interference in local politics. Burns emphasizes the value of choosing a representative from within the community, someone who understands the needs and concerns of the people.

Toasting Heron's Candidacy: The final ballad concludes with a toast to Heron's candidacy and praises his suitability for serving in the House of Commons. Burns suggests that having individuals like Heron in Parliament would be a blessing, as they would bring honesty and integrity to the political process.

In summary, "The Heron Ballads" by Robert Burns are a series of satirical and celebratory verses that champion the virtues of Robert Heron and advocate for honest and independent representation in government. Through witty commentary and straightforward language, Burns critiques the aristocratic establishment and calls for political reform based on merit and integrity.