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Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained | |||
"The Auld House" by Carolina Oliphant Nairne is a heartfelt reflection on a beloved old house and the cherished memories associated with it. The speaker nostalgically recalls the small rooms of the house, emphasizing that their size didn't matter because of the kind hearts and joyful children who once inhabited them. The walls are adorned with wild roses and jessamine, serving as a reminder of the beautiful moments that were shared within those walls. The poem pays homage to the auld laird (landlord) and the leddy (lady) of the house, who warmly welcomed numerous guests and even Scotland's heir. The laird is described as cheerful, kind, and proud of his little auld house. The leddy is also mentioned as having clipped a lock of hair from Scotland's heir, showcasing her connection to the nation. The natural surroundings of the house are also celebrated. The singing of the mavis (song thrush), the blooming bluebells, and the meandering Bonny Earn (river) all contribute to the beauty and serenity of the place. However, as the poem progresses, a sense of loss and longing emerges. The auld house is described as deserted, and the speaker laments that no new house can compare to its charm. The children who once filled the house with their laughter and footsteps have scattered far and wide, some even to distant lands like the Indies. There is a melancholic realization that the reunions and joyful moments of the past will never be replicated. The poem also touches upon the passage of time and the transience of life. The kirkyard (churchyard) is mentioned, with its flowers and the solemn presence of holly trees and yew trees. It serves as a reminder of the inevitability of mortality. The setting sun is described as glorious, lifting the spirits and pointing toward the promise of a heavenly abode. The auld dial, an old sundial that marked the passage of time, has succumbed to the wintry winds and now lies hidden among overgrown weeds and grass, symbolizing the fading of days gone by. "The Auld House" is a poignant tribute to a place that holds deep sentimental value and the bittersweet nostalgia that accompanies the passing of time. It captures the essence of cherished memories, the fleeting nature of life, and the lasting imprint of a beloved home.
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