On a Suicide
By Robert Burns
Earth’d up here lies an imp o’ hell,
Planted by Satan’s dibble —
Poor silly wretch, he’s damn’d himsel’
To save the Lord the trouble.
Poem Analysis:
Robert Burns was known for his bold and often controversial poetry, addressing themes of morality, religion, and human suffering with sharp wit and satire. On a Suicide is a striking example of his dark humor and criticism of religious attitudes toward suicide. In just four lines, Burns presents a scathing yet thought-provoking take on how society and religious dogma judge those who take their own lives.
Themes and Interpretation
- Harsh Judgment and Religious Satire: The poem begins with an uncompromising condemnation “Earth’d up here lies an imp o’ hell, / Planted by Satan’s dibble” Burns refers to the deceased as an “imp of hell”, implying that society or religious authorities view the person as inherently evil. The phrase “planted by Satan’s dibble” (a dibble is a tool used for planting) sarcastically suggests that the suicide was destined for damnation from the start, mocking the rigid Calvinist belief in predestination.
- Dark Humor and Irony: The next lines, “Poor silly wretch, he’s damn’d himsel’ / To save the Lord the trouble”, are both grim and ironic. Burns implies that, according to religious doctrine, the person was already condemned, so by committing suicide, they merely sped up the inevitable. This line satirizes the harshness of religious judgment, making it seem almost absurd.
- Critique of Religious Intolerance: Burns was often critical of religious hypocrisy, and this poem reflects his disapproval of the way suicide victims were treated. Rather than offering compassion, religious authorities often declared them doomed to hell, refusing them proper burials or sympathy. Burns’s sarcastic tone exposes the cruelty of such beliefs.
Structure and Style
- Short and Impactful: The poem’s brevity enhances its punch, delivering a powerful critique in just four lines.
- Rhyming Couplet Pattern (ABAB): The simple rhyme scheme reinforces the sharp, satirical nature of the poem.
- Colloquial Language: Burns’s use of Scots dialect (“imp o’ hell”, “damn’d himsel’”) makes the poem feel more direct and biting, as if spoken in a moment of bitter observation.
On a Suicide is a bold, provocative poem that uses dark humor and irony to critique religious condemnation of suicide. Rather than expressing sorrow or sympathy, Burns exposes the harshness of societal and religious judgment, highlighting the hypocrisy of those who claim to preach compassion. The poem remains relevant today, as it challenges us to reflect on how we treat those who struggle with despair and mental health.