239. Song—My Bonie Mary

Read '239. Song—My Bonie Mary' by 'Robert Burns' and provide your summary and literary analysis in the comments section below.

239. Song—My Bonie Mary by Robert Burns

 GO, fetch to me a pint o’ wine,
 And fill it in a silver tassie;
That I may drink before I go,
 A service to my bonie lassie.
The boat rocks at the pier o’ Leith;
 Fu’ loud the wind blaws frae the Ferry;
The ship rides by the Berwick-law,
 And I maun leave my bonie Mary.


The trumpets sound, the banners fly,
 The glittering spears are ranked ready:
The shouts o’ war are heard afar,
 The battle closes deep and bloody;
It’s not the roar o’ sea or shore,
 Wad mak me langer wish to tarry!
Nor shouts o’ war that’s heard afar—
 It’s leaving thee, my bonie Mary!

Form: Lyric Comments

Comments About This Poem

Share your interpretation, favorite passage, or thoughts about this famous poem. Please provide an in-depth and meaningful comment.

  • What do you think the poet was trying to say?
  • Which line had the biggest impact on you?
  • How does this poem relate to modern life?
  • What literary devices did you notice?
No comments have been posted yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace