Lines to Mr. John Kennedy by Robert Burns
The speaker bids a dear friend farewell and warmly wishes him good luck and acceptance among fortune’s favourites. He hopes that no one will believe any detraction aimed at the friend, and he humorously prays that the Lord will thwart any devil who tries to claim him.
By Robert Burns · First published 1808 · Genre: Farewell poem, Occasional poetry, Epistolary poetry · 62 words
First lines
Farewell, dear friend! may guid luck hit you, / And 'mang her favourites admit you: / If e'er Detraction shore to smit you, / May nane believe him, / And ony deil that thinks to get you, / Good Lord, deceive him!
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Genres
- Farewell poem — The poem directly addresses John Kennedy in a parting valediction, offering wishes for his future welfare.
- Occasional poetry — It was composed for a particular social occasion and a specific recipient, rather than presenting a developed narrative.
- Epistolary poetry — Its intimate second-person address and personal message give it the character of a brief poetic letter.
- Friendship poetry — The speaker calls Kennedy a 'dear friend' and expresses affectionate concern for his luck, reputation, and spiritual safety.
Tags
farewell · friendship · good wishes · parting · good fortune · blessing · loyalty · protection from slander · detraction · reputation · divine protection · devil
What this Textopian page supports
Lines to Mr. John Kennedy is listed on Textopian as a poem by Robert Burns, dated 1808 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Robert Burns
- Date: 1808 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Farewell poem, Occasional poetry, Epistolary poetry, Friendship poetry, Scottish dialect poetry
- Length: 62 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
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