Songs of Angus and More Songs of Angus   By: Violet Jacob (1863-1946)

Songs of Angus and More Songs of Angus by Violet Jacob is a captivating collection of Scottish folk songs that beautifully captures the essence of the Angus region. Jacob's deep appreciation for her homeland shines through every line of poetry in this enchanting volume.

The first part of the book, Songs of Angus, showcases Jacob's talent for crafting soul-stirring verses that evoke a sense of longing and nostalgia. Each song is like a window into Angus's rich cultural heritage, presenting readers with vivid images of its landscapes, traditions, and people. Whether she is describing the lush green fields, the rugged coastline, or the melodies of the Gaelic language, Jacob's words transport you to Angus with incredible clarity.

What makes this collection particularly exceptional is Jacob's ability to infuse her poetry with a genuine emotional depth. By delving into the lives and experiences of the people of Angus, she successfully captures their hopes, dreams, and sorrows. From tales of love and loss to stories of hardworking fishermen and resilient farmers, the Songs of Angus beautifully portray the complexities of human existence while celebrating the indomitable spirit of the people.

The second part of the book, More Songs of Angus, expands on Jacob's already impressive repertoire. Here, she further explores the landscapes, history, and cultural traditions of Angus. The reader is treated to a diverse array of poems, each possessing its own unique charm. From ballads that recount ancient legends to odes that emphasize the strength and resilience of Angus's inhabitants, each song contributes to a comprehensive portrait of the region.

One of the remarkable aspects of Jacob's writing is her ability to create a strong connection between the reader and the subject matter. Through her evocative verses, it is easy to develop a genuine appreciation for Angus and its people, even for those unfamiliar with the region. From start to finish, this collection weaves a remarkable tapestry of Angus's past and present, effortlessly drawing the reader into its captivating world.

Songs of Angus and More Songs of Angus is a testament to Jacob's profound love for her homeland and her remarkable skill as a poet. Her words have the power to transport readers to the heart of Angus, invoking a deep sense of connection and admiration for its landscapes, culture, and people. Whether you have ties to the region or simply appreciate high-quality poetry, this collection is an absolute must-read that will leave a lasting impression.

First Page:

There are few poets to day who write in the Scots vernacular, and the modesty of the supply is perhaps determined by the slenderness of the demand, for pure Scots is a tongue which in the changes of the age is not widely understood, even in Scotland. The various accents remain, but the old words tend to be forgotten, and we may be in sight of the time when that noble speech shall be degraded to a northern dialect of English. The love of all vanishing things burns most strongly in those to whom they are a memory rather than a presence, and it is not unnatural that the best Scots poetry of our day should have been written by exiles. Stevenson, wearying for his "hills of home," found a romance in the wet Edinburgh streets, which might have passed unnoticed had he been condemned to live in the grim reality... Continue reading book >>