Burns started working on the family farm at a young age, contributing to support his large family. He spent his early years helping with farm chores, learning about agriculture, and developing a deep connection to the natural world around him. This experience laid the foundation for his future poetic style, which often drew inspiration from everyday life and rural imagery.
Despite the demands of farm work, Burns had an insatiable thirst for knowledge. He was self-educated and read widely, studying literature, philosophy, and history. His voracious reading expanded his horizons and provided him with a rich reservoir of ideas and poetic themes.
In his early twenties, Burns began expressing his thoughts and emotions through poetry. Encouraged by his friends and fellow farm workers, he started composing songs, ballads, and poems in the Scots vernacular. His writings resonated strongly with the local community, and his reputation as a talented poet gradually spread beyond his immediate circle.
As Burns gained popularity, he decided to publish his first collection of poetry, titled _"Poems, Chiefly in the Scottish Dialect"_ in 1786. The book was a runaway success, not only in Scotland but also in London and other parts of England. The publication brought Burns instant fame and recognition, cementing his position as one of the most beloved and influential poets of his time.
Burns's poetic career took off, and he devoted himself entirely to writing. He traveled extensively throughout Scotland, collecting folk songs and stories while meeting intellectuals, artists, and influential people. His poems celebrated Scottish culture, love, nature, and social issues, and he became known as the National Bard of Scotland.
Throughout his life, Burns continued to write poetry and songs that have become timeless classics. He passed away on July 21, 1796, at the age of 37, leaving behind a remarkable body of work that has continued to inspire and captivate readers for generations. Despite the challenges he faced as a farmer, Burns's passion for poetry ultimately led him to become one of the most celebrated poets in history.