1. Embracing the Vernacular: Unlike many poets of his time who adhered to formal, elevated language, Burns embraced the everyday speech of the common people of Scotland. He used the Scots language, including its unique vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation, in a way that was both authentic and poetic. This was revolutionary, as it gave voice to the previously marginalized and celebrated the rich culture of ordinary people.
2. Blending Dialect with Elevated Language: Burns was not simply writing in dialect for the sake of it. He cleverly intertwined Scots with English, using both to create powerful effects. He would often start with a simple, colloquial phrase in Scots, then shift to more formal English for a sense of drama or lyrical beauty. This skillful blending helped to make his poetry accessible to a wider audience while also preserving the authenticity of his voice.
3. Using Dialect for Humor and Satire: Burns utilized dialect effectively to convey humor and satire. He often used puns and wordplay that would have been lost in standard English, making his poems even more engaging and entertaining. His use of dialect allowed him to highlight the absurdity of social injustices and hypocrisy, making his critiques even more impactful.
4. Highlighting the Beauty of the Scots Language: Burns' use of dialect went beyond simply reflecting the language of the people; he actively elevated the Scots language. He demonstrated its richness, beauty, and expressive power, showing that it could be used to create literature that rivaled the finest in English. He helped to preserve and popularize the Scots language, ensuring its continued use and development.
How it Differed from Others:
* Romantic Poets: While Romantic poets often used regional dialects, they tended to romanticize them. Burns, however, focused on the actual speech of the people, including its rough edges and imperfections.
* Earlier Scottish Poets: While some earlier Scottish poets used Scots, they often did so in a limited way, perhaps only for specific characters or situations. Burns used it throughout his entire body of work, making it central to his poetic voice.
In conclusion, Robert Burns' use of dialect was a defining characteristic of his poetry. It allowed him to capture the authenticity of Scottish life, highlight the richness of the Scots language, and create a powerful and lasting impact on the literary world. He paved the way for other poets to embrace vernacular language and celebrate the diverse voices of their cultures.