Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Alexander Laing's poem, "The Standard on the Braes O' Mar," is a stirring anthem of unity and rebellion. Written in a distinctively Scottish vernacular, it captures a moment of national fervor as Highland clans are called to join forces and fight for their rightful monarch. The poem echoes the sentiments of the Jacobite risings, a series of rebellions that occurred in Britain and Ireland from 1688 to 1746.

Provenance and Context

Alexander Laing (1787-1878) was a Scottish poet renowned for his verses written in the dialect of the Scottish Lowlands. His works, rich in Scottish history and culture, often celebrate local customs and traditions. "The Standard on the Braes O' Mar," first published in 1824, with its patriotic call-to-arms, exemplifies Laing's interest in Scotland's historical struggles and its efforts to reclaim its political sovereignty.

The poem's context can be inferred from its reference to "Jamie," which likely denotes James Francis Edward Stuart, the 'Old Pretender,' who claimed the thrones of England, Scotland, and Ireland. The mention of the "German Carlie" hints at King George I, a German-born monarch who assumed the British throne due to the Act of Settlement 1701, which barred Catholics from the throne. This created significant dissent, leading to the Jacobite uprisings.

Theme Analysis

The key theme of the poem is unity and defiance in the face of oppression. Laing presents a united front of Scottish Highlanders answering the call of their "noble chief," ready to fight for their homeland and the king they love. The repeated call to join various chieftains symbolizes the uniting of diverse Scottish clans under a single cause.

Another important theme is loyalty, particularly the loyalty towards their rightful king, Jamie. The urgency and determination evident in lines like "Fy! Donald, up and let's awa', / We canna langer parley," emphasizes the fierce loyalty that underpins the rallying call.

Poetic Devices

The poem uses several poetic devices to enhance its call to action. The rhyme scheme variesthe inconsistency might be a deliberate choice by the poet to create variety and maintain the listener's interest in this martial anthem. Laing's use of Scottish vernacular adds authenticity and a sense of identity to the poem, drawing on local dialect to create a shared understanding and enhance the sense of unity among the characters in the poem.

Repetition is used effectively to emphasize the impending action and unity of the clans. The refrains, "?? The Highlandmen / Frae hill and glen," and "Macdonald's men, / Clan-Ranald's men," convey the gathering of various clans.

Imagery is vivid throughout the poem, with the standard "streaming rarely," pipes sounding, and warriors dashing forward to "hack and slash," painting a stirring picture of rebellion.

Conclusion

"The Standard on the Braes O' Mar" is a powerful tribute to Scotland's history, evoking the spirit of defiance and unity that marked the Jacobite risings. Through rhythmic verse, stirring imagery, and authentic vernacular, Alexander Laing captures the urgency, loyalty, and communal strength that drove the Highland clans to fight for their sovereign rights. It stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Scottish nationalism and a poignant reminder of the struggles the nation has endured.

*NOTABLES REFERRED TO IN THE POEM:

Erskine, Earl of Mar, commander-in-chief of the Chevalier's army. He proclaimed James the eighth, and raised his standard at Castletoun of Brae-Mar, September 6th, 1715. He died in France, 1732.

Drummond, marquis of Drummond, lieutenant-general of James's army, "a nobleman of great spirit, honour, and abilities." He died in France about 1717.

Macdonald of Glengary, "a brave and spirited chief," attainted.

Macgregor-Rob Roy Macgregor, brother to the laird of Macgregor, and hero of the novel which bears his name.

Murray, marquis of Tullibardine: died in the Tower of London, 1746.

Rollo-lord Rollo, "a man of singular merit and great integrity," he died in 1758.

Keith, earl marischal of Scotland: died in Switzerland, 1771.

Maule, earl of Panmure: died in Paris, 1723.

Harry Maule, brother to the earl of Panmure, "who with every personal accomplishment, possessed great intrepidity, military skill," &c. died about 1740.

Ranald Macdonald, captain of clan-Ranald. "He was the most gallant and generous young gentleman among the clan:" he fell in the field of battle.

Mackenzie, earl of Seaforth: died 1740.

Macgillvary: a name applied to the clans in general.

Strathallan-viscount Strathallan: he was taken prisoner at Sherriffinuir; pardoned; joined Prince Charles Stuart, and fell in the battle of Culloden, 1746.

Callender-Livingston earl of Callender and Linlithgow; attainted.

Airly, Ogilvie, eldest son of the earl of Airly; attainted, but afterwards pardoned.

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