Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Our Mary" is a deeply touching and poignant poem by the Scottish poet, Henry Scott Riddell. The poem revolves around the life, illness, and death of a young girl named Mary. The narrative is presented with profound tenderness, rendering an aura of melancholy and admiration for the young character.

Provenance and Context:

Henry Scott Riddell (1798-1870) was a prolific Scottish poet and songwriter of the 19th century known for his thoughtful verses and profound emotional depth. "Our Mary" stands as a testament to his remarkable ability to depict emotions, particularly the human response to illness and death.

Theme and Analysis:

At the heart of "Our Mary" lies the narrative of an eleven year old girl named Mary. Riddell paints Mary as a picture of innocence, purity, and cheerfulness, who "shunn'd the ill, and sought the good." The poet's fond depiction of Mary sets the tone for the tragic events that follow.

The second part of the poem turns melancholic as Mary falls sick. She becomes frail, yet the poet tells us, "she grew and grew the lovelier still." Her disease does not quench her spirit but rather intensifies her sweetness and gentleness. The poet vividly describes the pain of seeing a beloved one suffer and the helplessness against the inevitability of death.

Riddell effectively uses imagery to portray Mary's physical transformation, such as her "long locks o' yellow hair." Despite her debilitating condition, she tries to engage in her usual activities to conceal her illness from her loved ones, further showing her considerate nature.

The poem's final lines echo the universal truth of mortality. The speaker subtly suggests that everyone will encounter death and expresses a hopeful wish for a peaceful end, just like Mary's.

In terms of poetic devices, the poem maintains an ABAB rhyme scheme, creating a sense of harmony even amidst the somber subject matter. Riddell also uses Scottish dialect throughout, which adds a layer of authenticity to the narration.

Overall, "Our Mary" is a touching narrative of a beloved girl whose purity and gentleness transcend the affliction that prematurely ends her life. Through effective imagery, rhythm, and the subtle use of dialect, Riddell crafts a poem that is at once heart-rending and contemplative, leading readers to reflect on the ephemeral nature of life and the enduring beauty of the human spirit.

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