"The Stag At Eve Had Drunk His Fill"
The stag at eve had drunk his fill,
Where danced the moon on Monan's rill,
And deep his midnight lair had made
In lone Glenartney's hazel shade.
Walter Scott paints a vivid picture of tranquil beauty in this opening scene from The Lady of the Lake. The stag, having satisfied its thirst, retreats to a secluded and serene spot for the night. Scott's depiction of "the moon on Monan's rill" dancing adds a touch of ethereal magic to the natural landscape, emphasizing the harmony and peace of the evening. The imagery of the "midnight lair" nestled in "Glenartney's hazel shade" suggests a deep connection between the creature and its environment, highlighting the natural rhythms of life undisturbed by human presence. This peaceful setting serves as a stark contrast to the chaos of the hunt that will follow. Scott's ability to capture the essence of a place sets the tone for his epic narrative, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the wild beauty of the Scottish countryside.
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