The Poetical Works of Robert Burns/How cruel are the Parents
For other versions of this work, see How Cruel are the Parents (Burns).
HOW CRUEL ARE THE PARENTS.
TUNE—'JOHN ANDERSON MY JO.'
How cruel are the parentsWho riches only prize,And to the wealthy boobyPoor woman sacrifice.Meanwhile the hapless daughterHas but a choice of strife;To shun a tyrant father's hate,Becomes a wretched wife.
The ravening hawk pursuing,The trembling dove thus flies,To shun impelling ruinAwhile her pinions tries;Till of escape despairing,No shelter or retreat,She trusts the ruthless falconer,And drops beneath his feet.