Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Still Small Voice" is a poem written in Scottish dialect by Alexander Smart, which uses a simple, relatable narrative to impart a timeless moral lesson: refrain from doing things in the day that might cause regret or grief at night.

Provenance and Context:

Alexander Smart was a Scottish poet known for writing for children in the vernacular of his region. While there is not much readily available information about Smart's life or the exact date of this poem, it likely comes from the mid 19th century, a period known for its flourishing Scottish vernacular literature.

Theme and Analysis:

The central theme of "Still Small Voice" is moral accountability and the consequences of actions. The poem narrates the story of a young boy, Sandy, who skips school and subsequently feels the guilt and fear of potential repercussions, even becoming scared of harmless objects like the "whin bush."

Through Sandy's experience, the poet imparts the timeless lesson of avoiding actions that could lead to regret or grief later on. The repeated refrain, "do naething through the day that may gar ye greet at night," serves as a poignant reminder of this moral principle.

The phrase "still small voice" in the title refers to the inner voice or conscience that guides individuals to make moral choices, further reinforcing the poem's theme.

Stylistically, the poem follows a regular rhyme scheme and uses repetition to emphasize its core message. The Scottish dialect lends the poem authenticity and a unique rhythm that adds to its charm.

In conclusion, "Still Small Voice" offers a simple, relatable narrative that imparts an important moral lesson. Through the use of dialect, repetition, and relatable characters, the poem emphasizes the importance of accountability, the inner conscience, and the potential consequences of our actions.

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