Notes About The Poem

Queen Mary of Scotland

Argyle socks, kilts,
Scottish tartan scarves
and Knox — aye
Mary, Queen Mary
shall you marry Darnly
for love? Nay...

Torches, kilts and song.
Heather in hands, waving
but Knox knocks their merry
socks off, eccentrically calling
Mary, a Jezebel queen.

Stuart clings to her Catholicity,
as she permits worshipping
as Protestants — not good
enough for Knox. Of kilts and tales
told, no dancing, singing or drinking fold —
bearded and bold John rattles.

Knox’s mentor burned at the stake.
His ire, his hand raised, will not accept
the same fate, so he rains down hellfire.

Kilts and bagpipes, boots marching,
music playing. Aye, Mary Queen of Scotland
with drumsticks banging, the pretty thing
rules with her heart...loses her head.

3/22/2021
Julia Ward’s Scotland
Copyright © | Year Posted 2021

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Y. Avatar
March 24, 2021 at 6:23 AM
Hi Kim, You wrote a fine tribute to Mary Queen of Scots. I learned more about her life from watching the TV series Reign. Although I know alot of the storyline wasn't true for ratings, it was a good show. Best wishes in the contest. Have a great day:-) Alexis
Rodrigues Avatar
March 24, 2021 at 7:05 AM
I watched that too! I figure some of the less historical showed off the history and superstition of the times. I then watched more of Mary on a couple movies. I’m all Mary’d out for now. Loved Reign! Have you watched Versaille...loved that too but had to FF through much of it. Love the history! God bless!
Ball Avatar
March 23, 2021 at 8:13 PM
A fine write and a fine tribute to Mary, Queen of Scots. God Bless, JB
Rodrigues Avatar
March 24, 2021 at 7:06 AM
Thank you, Judy!
Mcintosh Avatar
March 23, 2021 at 6:34 AM
Wow. A great write. Love it. God bless you with a win. Love, Gina
Rodrigues Avatar
March 23, 2021 at 2:44 PM
Thank you, Regina!
Andresen Avatar
March 23, 2021 at 4:44 AM
- Excellent story told in small version, Kim :) - Best wishes in the contest :) - hugs // Anne-Lise :)
Rodrigues Avatar
March 23, 2021 at 6:27 AM
Thank you, my friend!
Theraven Avatar
March 22, 2021 at 5:33 PM
Kim, History unfolded here so well. I really got caught up in your storybook poem. From the Argyle socks, and weddings, to Queen Mary's eventual beheading. -Richard
Rodrigues Avatar
March 22, 2021 at 5:36 PM
Thank you, Richard!
Kauffman Avatar
March 22, 2021 at 3:06 PM
The story of Mary Queen of Scots and her battles with John Knox - told so well Kim. Great idea for the contest. Best wishes for a win!
Rodrigues Avatar
March 22, 2021 at 5:36 PM
Thank you, Sam!
Costales Avatar
March 22, 2021 at 2:54 PM
Very authentic Scottish images - kilts, bagpipes and all. Enjoyed.
Rodrigues Avatar
March 22, 2021 at 2:56 PM
Thank you, Josefina!
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