Robert Burns Poem: To A Mouse + Modern English Translation

A reading of the Robert Burns Poem - To A Mouse. There is also a modern English translation of the poem and a few interesting facts about the poem. When it was written, where it was written and also why... I hope you enjoy this great Robert Burns Poem !

Thanks,
Alastair
The Drinking Mans Guide To Scotland

[cheesecakelasagna]

As someone whose first language isn't English, I truly appreciate modern English translations of past literature. It's a great way to introduce ideas and stories.

[Malkie]

I remember having to remember this off by heart when I was 7/8 in primary 4 and I was so nervous but 12/13 years later I now love this poem and it’s definitely one of the best poems of all time

[danakapoostinsky]

When I heard your accent I got really excited because of how fitting it is for this poem!

[bobstanza]

Exactly what I was looking for. Hearing the poem spoken and having it translated bridges the gap and allows me to enjoy his works. Thank you, Alastair, I just bought your Burns Nature book on audible!

[stellaro]

We enjoyed this on this chilly November night and felt for the mousie and the man.

[chedca]

thank you!

the best thing about Burns poems are the people they brought me near to

[nathanlongan]

A million thanks! That was one of the best eight minutes I have ever spent on YouTube! I just bought the electronic version on Amazon, and will write a review. Again, thank you for this video!

[sdick]

Thank you, Alastair, for introducing me to Robert Burns. I enjoyed your story of your father reciting this poem to you as a child, I enjoyed your authentic recitation of the poem, and I am grateful for your translation in English. I would love to go pub hopping with you sometime.

[chrislawrence]

Thank you so much for a mellifluous, lyrical reading of the Burns poem in a truly authentic brogue! What a treat! And your translation into modern English was very useful, not only in understanding all of the poem, but in applying the larger theme of controlling one’s destiny to Steinbeck’s “Of Mice and Men”. Lenny, like the mouse, is challenged only by the present, while his more intelligent companion, George, will continue to regret the past as well as to fear the future.

[chollatech]

I nice rendition for Burns' Night. such a great poem for anyone who appreciates a balanced walk upon the earth

[francesduff]

My father used to read and quote these poems. I always loved them. He had a record of someone reading them as well. Thanks you for your work.

[Pearly]

This was very well done. My grandpa treated me to this poem only one time, then he said "Remember Robert Burns" He was not one to recite poetry, but for me he did. Mother said that he used to refer to me as his wee mouse. So thank you for the translation. It sounded like Grandpa.

[ralphreinert]

I have loved this poem since reading it as a child. It is nice to hear it in the proper accent.

[Steven-zflf]

POV: You're watching this for an English assignment

[susanwarrow]

Thanks for this. I show it to my students each year when we finish reading "Of Mice and Men" so that they better understand the title.

[hulleeseeya]

I'm they call First Nations now (we had been know North American "Indians") I used to teach at an all native (First Nations) school. One of my lectures was called "what we owe to Robie Burns." His class jumping and nature loving publications were very much the way we think now.

[Littlewolf]

It’s comforting to me to know that- even over 200 years ago, someone else thought & felt as I do about the poor defenseless wee creatures. Thanks 😘

[beckerhambabe]

Excellent reading of the original and modern translation!  Thank you so much.  I am using this for my English class leading in to teaching John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men as I have read that this poem influenced his creation of the title.

[rynn]

This has always been one of my favorites of all time. Simple but powerful. Thank you for this recital.

[williamjohnston]

This is the best I have listened to. Thankyou