Rantin' Rovin' Robin
written in 1787
There was a lad was born in Kyle, But whatna day o' whatna style, I doubt it's hardly worth the while To be sae nice wi' Robin. Chor. - Robin was a rovin' boy, Rantin', rovin', rantin', rovin', Robin was a rovin' boy, Rantin', rovin', Robin! Our monarch's hindmost year but ane Was five-and-twenty days begun, 'Twas then a blast o' Janwar' win' Blew hansel in on Robin. Robin was, &c. The gossip keekit in his loof, Quo' scho, "Wha lives will see the proof, This waly boy will be nae coof: I think we'll ca' him Robin." Robin was, &c. "He'll hae misfortunes great an' sma', But aye a heart aboon them a', He'll be a credit till us a'- We'll a' be proud o' Robin." Robin was, &c. "But sure as three times three mak nine, I see by ilka score and line, This chap will dearly like our kin', So leeze me on thee! Robin." Robin was, &c. "Guid faith," quo', scho, "I doubt you gar The bonie lasses lie aspar; But twenty fauts ye may hae waur So blessins on thee! Robin." Robin was, &c.
Rantin' Rovin' Robin - meaning Summary
A Jaunty Portrait of Robin
This short, playful song presents the birth and character sketch of a boy called Robin. In Scots dialect and a singable chorus, the speaker describes uncertain birth details, a January wind, and local gossip that predicts Robin will be lively, affectionate, and sometimes unlucky but proud and creditable. The repeated refrain "Robin was a rovin' boy" gives the piece a communal, celebratory tone, mixing teasing humor with genuine warmth as neighbors weigh his faults and blessings while welcoming him into the community.
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