Today is not only the birthday of Scottish poet and lyricist Robert Burns, but also Burns Day! Whatever you call it, they both aim to celebrate the life and works of the Scotland’s Favourite Son!
Burns is probably most famous for his poem (and song) “Auld Lang Syne” which is traditionally sung to ring in the New Year. He composed many poems and songs and also adapted or revised traditional Scottish folk songs.
Most of his work was written in the Scots language, with some written in English a Scots dialect which is spoken throughout central Scotland.
Some of his works are still incredibly popular today such as “The Louse,” “Red, Red Rose,” “The Mouse,” “Ae Fond Kiss” and “Tam o’Shanter.”
DID YOU KNOW?
- He is regarded as the national poet of Scotland and his song “Scots Wha Hae” was considered the country’s unofficial national anthem.
- He produced more than 550 poems and songs in the 37 years he lived.
- His poem “Address to Haggis” is credited for making haggis Scotland’s national dish.
- He acknowledged being the biological father of at least 14 children and his last son was born the day of Burns’s funeral.
- Burns has the most statues dedicated to him around the world after Queen Victoria and Christopher Columbus.