The Whiskey Taster’s Flavor Guide

321. Song—Craigieburn Wood

Read '321. Song—Craigieburn Wood' by 'Robert Burns' and provide your summary and literary analysis in the comments section below.

321. Song—Craigieburn Wood by Robert Burns

 SWEET closes the ev’ning on Craigieburn Wood,
 And blythely awaukens the morrow;
But the pride o’ the spring in the Craigieburn Wood
 Can yield to me nothing but sorrow.


Chorus.—Beyond thee, dearie, beyond thee, dearie,
 And O to be lying beyond thee!
O sweetly, soundly, weel may he sleep
 That’s laid in the bed beyond thee!


I see the spreading leaves and flowers,
 I hear the wild birds singing;
But pleasure they hae nane for me,
 While care my heart is wringing.
 Beyond thee, &c.


I can na tell, I maun na tell,
 I daur na for your anger;
But secret love will break my heart,
 If I conceal it langer.
 Beyond thee, &c.


I see thee gracefu’, straight and tall,
 I see thee sweet and bonie;
But oh, what will my torment be,
 If thou refuse thy Johnie!
 Beyond thee, &c.


To see thee in another’s arms,
 In love to lie and languish,
’Twad be my dead, that will be seen,
 My heart wad burst wi’ anguish.
 Beyond thee, &c.


But Jeanie, say thou wilt be mine,
 Say thou lo’es nane before me;
And a’ may days o’ life to come
 I’ll gratefully adore thee,
 Beyond thee, &c.

Form: Ballad 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.
The Whiskey Taster’s Flavor Guide
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace