Although recognized throughout the world, the poems of Robert Burns are rarely understood. Many lovers of his poetry and songs have struggled with the meanings of many of the bard's words. This book aims to give readers an immediate understanding of 138 of his poems. Opposite every stanza of each poem, the meaning of what Burns wrote is given, along with a glossary. Thus, alongside lines from "Ode to a Mouse" ("Wee sleekit, cow'rin', tim'rous beastie, Oh, what a panic's in thy breastie!") the author explains that "Burns is doing his utmost to assure this terrified little creature that it is quite safe, that he has no intention of causing it any harm".