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Previous work: Lines written on windows of the Globe Tavern, Dumfries

Next work: The Linkin' Laddie

Lines, wrote by Burns, while on his deathbed


 He who of Ranken sang, lies stiff and dead, And a green grassy hillock hides his head; Alas! Alas! A devilish change indeed.

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Douglas Henshall

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About this work

This is a poem by Robert Burns. It was written in 1785 and is read here by Douglas Henshall.

Themes for this poem

death nature religion

Selected for 17 October

Our third poem about John Ranken comprises today's selection. Burns completes his satirical hat trick by impugning the 'deceased' Ranken whilst imagining HIMSELF about to die.

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