There is something about the poems and songs of Robert Burns that brings people together. The team at the Edinburgh Evening News have pitched in to share their favourite piece by Scotland’s Bard, and why it holds a special place in their hearts.
. The Selkirk Grace
"Some hae meat and canna eat, And some wad eat that want it, But we hae meat and we can eat, Sae let the Lord be Thankit!" What a way to start - and yes, we know that although this is attributed to Burns, there is a suggestion that it was already in use, but as one of our reporters said, you can't have a Burns Night without it. So we're including it. Photo: Submitted
. To A Mouse
"That wee bit heap o’ leaves and stibble, Has cost thee monie a weary nibble!" One of our team remembers this poem as "it was first Burns poem I learned by heart and recited to class. Still remember the nerves!" Photo: S.A
. The Rights Of Woman
"In that blest sphere alone we live and move; There taste that life of life-immortal love." One Edinburgh reporter explained why this one held a special place in their heart. "I had to say Rights of Woman at my mum's auntie's funeral in Edinburgh years ago (my worst nightmare but anyway) - went for lunch after at The Persevere and all the older people just sat around saying Burns poems and songs. It was so fun" (Picture: From Burns at Edinburgh Playhouse PIC: Peter Dibdin). Photo: PETER DIBDIN
9. Halloween
"Wi' merry sangs, and friendly cracks, I wat they didna weary; And unco tales, and funny jokes, Their sports were cheap and cheer..." It seems the Edinburgh team has a rather spooky and dark taste in poetry, although Halloween - despite its mentions of ghosts and gouls - is more about the mischief and pranks played at this time of year. Photo: Adobe Stock
10. Auld Lang Syne
"And there’s a hand, my trusty fere! And gie’s a hand o’ thine! And we’ll tak a right gude-willie waught, For auld lang syne." This one simply had to make the list - we all agreed. This song, usually sung on Hogmanay to welcome in the new year, was actually based on an older Scottish folk song. It's title translates into English as 'for old times sake' and every year, it never fails to bring people together. Photo: Hulton Archive