Student Blog: Burn's Night 2018

On Saturday January 27^th, Brasenose continued its great tradition of hosting Burns Night. The evening is a celebration of the life and work of the 18^th century Scottish poet. Burns was born to tenant farmers in Alloway. In his short life he spent much time working in the fields but is best known as one of Scotland’s best song and poetry writers.

We began with drinks in Chapel and were then piped around Old Quad. Everyone was seated and the bagpipes continued with the Piping in of the Haggis. Bethany Wise (3^rd year Law) performed the Selkirk Grace in an impressive imitation of the Scots tongue. Derek Leske delivered the Address to the Haggis, displaying an enviable proficiency in Scots, a language Burns wrote in often. The domestic staff prepared a traditional meal – including an unbeatable haggis, neeps and tatties – accompanied by wine and whisky.

Afterwards, Michael McGrade (1^st year History and Economics) proposed the Immortal Memory. He reflected on Burns’ sense of justice, Burns’ thoughts had he been there that evening and included some confessions of a metropolitan Scot. William Freeman (2nd year Classics) then delivered a barnstorming Toast to the Lassies. He prepared and memorised a speech in verse that went down spectacularly. His rendition of the Scottish accent made for what was undoubtedly the highlight of the evening. Alisha Wright (3^rd year Law) then skilfully performed the Reply to the Lassies. Her insightful critique of Oxonian romance, in particular that of Oxlove, was met with notable accord from much of the female presence. Finally, Jacob Green (2nd year Engineering) mustered his best Scottish accent to perform the classic Tae a Mouse. His effort rightly received thunderous applause. The evening concluded with Ceilidh dancing lubricated by some help from the whisky bar.

Written by Michael McGrade (First Year History and Economics student from St Ninians High School - Glasgow)