Summary and composition

In what follows, we will present you the summary and composition of the poem “A Red, Red Rose” by Robert Burns.  

Summary

The poem “A Red, Red Rose” by Robert Burns was initially published as a love song. The poet addresses his song to the woman whom he loves. He is not shy in expressing the depth of his love, which he compares with roses, seas, and the heat of the sun or the immensity of the desert sands. In the end, he states that he will return to the loved one, even if it means walking ten thousand miles.

Composition

To have a better grasp of Robert Burns’ “A Red, Red Rose”, we must deal with both the outer composition and inner composition of the poem.

Outer composition

The poem “A Red, Red Rose” by Robert Burns can be partly read as a ballad. As you know, a ballad is a form of verse which can be set to music. The entire poem is formed of...