Question

What is the meaning of humble lay in the solitary reaper??

Answer 1

The expression ‘humble lay’ means an ordinary song. Since the poet didn't understand the language the highland lass was singing her song in, he surmised from the sad tone of the song that she was singing some melancholy song. The theme of her song could be a far old, unhappy event or a battle fought long ago or she might be singing an ordinary song about some sorrow, loss, or pain. Though the poet didn't understand the language, but he enjoyed the melody in the reaper's voice.