The Free Man-Robert Burns

THE FREE MAN


I have a penny to spend,

There-thanks to nobody;

I have nothing to lend,

I'll borrow frae nobody.


I am nobody's lord,

I'll be slave to nobody;

I have a guide braid sword,

I'll take dunts frae noebody.


I'll be merry and free,

I'll be sad for nobody;

Nobody cares for me,

I care for nobody.


ROBERT BURNS


Summary: 'The Free Man' is a short poem by Robert Burns that expresses the speaker's independence and disregard for societal expectations and obligations. The poem consists of a series of statements affirming the speaker's freedom and autonomy.

The speaker begins by declaring that they have a penny to spend but owe thanks to nobody for it. They have nothing to lend and refuse to borrow from anyone. This signifies their self-sufficiency and the absence of any indebtedness or reliance on others.

The next stanza emphasizes the speaker's rejection of social hierarchy. They assert that they are not beholden to anyone as a lord or master, and they refuse to be a slave to anyone. The mention of a 'guide braid sword' suggests that they possess the ability to defend themselves and are unafraid of confrontations or challenges from others.

In the following stanza, the speaker proclaims their determination to live a merry and free life. They refuse to be sad or burdened by the concerns or opinions of others. The line 'Nobody cares for me' reflects a sense of detachment or indifference to external validation or approval. Instead, they emphasize their own self-reliance and assert that they care for nobody, implying a disregard for the judgements and expectations of society.

Overall, 'The Free Man' celebrates individual freedom, self-reliance, and a rebellious spirit. It reflects a rejection of social constraints and the assertion of one's own agency and independence.

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