“A poet is a creature of impulse, and must follow the bent of his own genius.” Emphasising artistic instinct and the need for creative freedom · Letter Art Poetry
“I have ever looked upon the independence of the peasantry of Scotland as one of the most valuable parts of the constitution of the country.” Celebrating the dignity and independence of ordinary working people · Letter Freedom Truth
“The following trifles are the production of a simple, untutored Muse, with which I amused myself.” Presenting his early poems with characteristic modesty and self-awareness · Preface to Poems, Chiefly in the Scottish Dialect Humility Poetry
“The appellation of a Scottish poet, I am proud of.” Expressing pride in his national identity and poetic tradition · Prefatory remarks to Poems, Chiefly in the Scottish Dialect Fame Poetry
“Whatever mitigates the woes or increases the happiness of others, this is the criterion of the goodness of a man.” Defining moral goodness through compassion and the happiness one brings to others · Letter Hope Truth
