
The poem explores the arrival of spring and the transformative power of love. It begins with the joyous arrival of April, signaling the end of winter and the awakening of nature. Birds begin to nest, and the atmosphere is filled with a sense of pleasure and renewal. The speaker reflects on the vibrant beauty of the lasses, their bright eyes, and their elegant attire, contrasting the dreariness of winter. As love takes center stage, it is personified as a commanding force that gathers people from all walks of life, urging them to join in a celebration. The speaker, who previously lamented the cold and dreary winter, now embraces the spirit of spring and love, ready to join the lively throng with a cheerful demeanor. The poem captures the essence of rebirth, the joy of companionship, and the irresistible call of love that transcends seasons.
By Robert Louis Stevenson · First published 1891 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric · 241 words
WHEN aince Aprile has fairly come, An' birds may bigg in winter's lum, An' pleisure's spreid for a' and some O' whatna state, Love, wi' her auld recruitin' drum, Than taks the gate.
The heart plays dunt wi' main an' micht; The lasses' een are a' sae bricht, Their dresses are sae braw an' ticht, The bonny birdies! - Puir winter virtue at the sicht Gangs heels ower hurdies.
An' aye as love frae land to land Tirls the drum wi' eident hand, A' men collect at her command, Toun-bred or land'art, An' follow in a denty band Her gaucy standart.
An' I, wha sang o' rain an' snaw, An' weary winter weel awa', Noo busk me in a jacket braw, An' tak my place I' the ram-stam, harum-scarum raw, Wi' smilin' face.
When Aince Aprile has Fairly Come is listed on Textopian as a poem by Robert Louis Stevenson, dated 1891 CE.
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Spring · Love · Nature · Birds · Joy · Seasons · Scottish · Poetry · Romance · Celebration · Youth · Beauty