One of Burns's most notable quotes is embedded in a dark poem from 1784-85, which reflects both Burns's anger about inequality and poverty and, perhaps in equal measure, the underlying melancholy that was also part of his make-up.
from MAN WAS MADE TO MOURN
O Man! while in thy early years,
How prodigal of time!
Mispending all thy precious hours,
They glorious, youthful prime!
Alternate Follies take the sway;
Licentious Passions burn;
Which tenfold force gives Nature's law,
That Man was made to mourn.
Look not alone on youthful Prime,
Or Manhood's active might;
Man then is useful to his kind,
Supported is his right:
But see him on the edge of life,
With Cares and Sorrows worn,
Then Age and Want, Oh! ill-matched pair!
Show Man was made to mourn.
Many and sharp the num'rous Ills
Inwoven with our frame!
More pointed still we make ourselves,
Regret, Remorse, and Shame!
And Man, whose heav'n-erected face,
The smiles of love adorn,
Man's inhumanity to Man
Makes countless thousands mourn!
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