What the Auld Fowk are Thinkin
The work explores the contrasting perspectives of the elderly and the young, emphasizing the depth of thought and experience that the older generation possesses. It begins with a serene depiction of children sleeping peacefully, oblivious to the contemplations of the older individuals around them. The narrative highlights moments of daily life, where the elderly observe the carefree antics of children, reflecting on their own lives and the passage of time. As the scene shifts to communal activities, such as farming and church gatherings, the disconnect between the generations becomes apparent. The young are often preoccupied with their immediate concerns, while the elderly maintain a quiet wisdom, their thoughts rich with memories and insights that remain unspoken. The poem culminates in a poignant moment of reflection as the elderly face the inevitability of death, revealing their understanding of life's transient nature. Their smiles suggest acceptance and a deeper comprehension of existence that the younger generation cannot yet grasp. Ultimately, the work serves as a meditation on the unvoiced thoughts of the elderly, inviting readers to consider the profound inner lives that often go unnoticed by those around them.
By George MacDonald · First published 1863 · Genre: Poetry, Scottish Literature, Philosophical · 273 words
First lines
The bairns i' their beds, worn oot wi' nae wark, Are sleepin, nor ever an eelid winkin; The auld fowk lie still wi' their een starin stark, An' the mirk pang-fou o' the things they are thinkin.
Whan oot o' ilk corner the bairnies they keek, Lauchin an' daffin, airms loosin an' linkin, The auld fowk they watch frae the warm ingle-cheek, But the bairns little think what the auld fowk are thinkin.
Whan the auld fowk sit quaiet at the reet o' a stook, I' the sunlicht their washt een blinterin an' blinkin, Fowk scythin, or bin'in, or shearin wi' heuk Carena a strae what the auld fowk are thinkin.
What this Textopian page supports
What the Auld Fowk are Thinkin is listed on Textopian as a poem by George MacDonald, dated 1863 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: George MacDonald
- Date: 1863 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Scottish Literature, Philosophical, Social Commentary, Pastoral
- Length: 273 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form with a rhythmic and lyrical quality, characteristic of poetry.
- Scottish Literature — The use of Scots language and cultural references situates the work within Scottish literary tradition.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep reflections on life, aging, and the contrast between youth and old age, typical of philosophical literature.
- Social Commentary — The work comments on societal attitudes towards the elderly and the generational divide, indicative of social commentary.
Tags
Scottish culture · folklore · tradition · wisdom · elderly perspectives · community · humor · narrative · life lessons · rural life · intergenerational · storytelling