It's Burns Night, tonight.
What is Burns Night and how did it start?
The poet Robert Burns, a source of inspiration to the founders of Liberalism and Socialism, penned more than 550 verses and songs before he died at 37
Burns Night brings to mind forkfuls of peppery haggis and wee drams of whisky but the history of the festivities is often taken for granted.
The Burns Supper is a celebration of the life and legacy of the Scottish poet Robert Burns. While it was first organised by his close friends and family as a memorial dinner, the night has since morphed into an event for Scots at home and around the world.
It is celebrated with traditional Scottish fare, folk music and renditions of Burns’s poetry.
The main attraction of Burns Night is the Burns Supper. This traditionally involves participants donning tartan, listening to bagpipes, crooning Auld Lang Syne – also sung at New Year’s Eve – and reciting the great writer’s songs and poems.
Who was Robert Burns?
“Rabbie” Burns penned more than 550 poems and songs before his death in 1796.
A massive source of inspiration to the founders of Liberalism and Socialism, the 18th-century writer is known for his astute social commentary and focus on all things political. Scotland’s national poet is considered a revolutionary figure, both in his homeland and beyond.
Read on: [independent.co.uk]burns-night-2024-what-when-date-b2484583.html
We used to have a Burns Night here on Kauai, but I never attended. Now, since covid, I haven't noticed it being offered again. One of these years, maybe! I'm part Scottish, so I'd be interested! All that to say, it's a world-wide celebration, even to small tropical islands!
It is many decades since I have been to a Burn's night.
Can't stand bagpipes. Haggis is not bad though.
Fair enough.
Bagpipes used to be classified as weapons of war: [wearethemighty.com]
@anglophone I can understand that perfectly. The poor enemy will get such a headache that they simply run away.
@anglophone Great article re the bagpipes, an interesting read. Thanks for sharing it.
My uncle lived in Scotland, despite being English. He got a lot of crap from his workers, that crossed the line from banter into outright discrimination. They used to call him a “SEB” or Stupid English Bastard to his face without any hesitation. He just accepted that insult and got on with the job.
He’s probably enjoying Burns night somewhere though!
@anglophone Well with their kilts, I have heard the Germans called them, "The ladies from Hell".
@anglophone, @Zealandia Well the Irish can thank Winnie for Irish independace. I forgot his title at the time, but he was the one that sent the drunken Black and Tans into Ireland. That was the last straw, and the Irish threw off the English yoke.