Haggis, neeps and tatties!

That is what the Scots traditionally eat today to celebrate the birth of our National bard, Robert Burns, who was born on 25th Jan 1759.

Why do we eat haggis on this day? Well when Robert Burns died, several Burns Clubs were setup in his honour and they celebrated by eating haggis in honour of his poem "To a Haggis". To find out all about haggis look here.

What are neeps and tatties? Well neeps are turnips and tatties are potatoes. Both are mashed and served with the haggis.

As we are celebrating The national Bard, I just had to post a poem! However it is not one of his poem, but one written about him by an other Scottish Poet, William Topaz McGonagall. He also published several poems, he was known as Scotland's Worst Poet!

Here is his poem........................................

Robert Burns

IMMORTAL Robert Burns of Ayr,

There's but few poets can with you compare;

Some of your poems and songs are very fine:

To "Mary in Heaven" is most sublime;

And then again in your "Cottar's Saturday Night,

"Your genius there does shine most bright,

As pure as the dewdrops of the night.

Your "Tam O'Shanter" is very fine,

Both funny, racy, and divine,

From John O'Groats to Dumfries

All critics consider it to be a masterpiece,

And, also, you have said the same,

Therefore they are not to blame.

And in my own opinion both you and they are right,

For your genius there does sparkle bright,

Which I most solemnly declare To thee,

Immortal Bard of Ayr!
Your "Banks and Braes of Bonnie Doon

"Is sweet and melodious in its tune,

And the poetry is moral and sublime,

And in my opinion nothing can be more fine.

Your "Scots wha hae wi' Wallace bled

"Is most beautiful to hear sung or read;

For your genius there does shine as bright,

Like unto the stars of night
Immortal Bard of Ayr!

I must conclude my muse

To speak in praise of thee does not refuse,

For you were a mighty poet, few could with you compare,

And also an honour to Scotland, for your genius it is rare .

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If you have been reading my blog for any length of time you will realise that I quite like poetry and periodically I will post one.....Today is no exception! Once again this urge for a suitable poem was brought on by a) Burns Day and b) the kids coming home from school with "Scottish" poems to learn for their homework! None were by Burns!