Richard Roe and John Doe
The narrative follows Richard Roe, a man consumed by envy and frustration towards John Doe, who has usurped his life and possessions. Roe's reflections reveal his deep desire for the wisdom and power of historical figures like Solomon, Alexander, and Job, each representing different aspects of strength and resilience. Despite his aspirations, Roe feels increasingly powerless and disillusioned, recognizing that his own situation is dire and devoid of divine intervention or support. As the story unfolds, Roe's internal conflict intensifies. He grapples with feelings of inadequacy and betrayal, ultimately wishing to embody the very person who has wronged him, John Doe. This paradox highlights the complexity of human emotions, where admiration and resentment intertwine. Roe's journey becomes a poignant exploration of identity, loss, and the struggle for agency in a world where he feels overshadowed and defeated. The work delves into themes of power dynamics, the nature of envy, and the quest for self-identity amidst adversity. Roe's character serves as a vessel for examining the human condition, illustrating how one's circumstances can lead to a profound sense of helplessness and longing for traits that seem unattainable. The interplay between aspiration and reality forms the crux of the narrative, inviting readers to reflect on their own desires and the societal structures that shape them. Ultimately, the story encapsulates a timeless struggle, resonating with anyone who has faced the challenges of envy, loss, and the search for personal strength in the face of overwhelming odds.
By Robert Graves · First published 1947 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Philosophical · 178 words
First lines
Richard Roe wished himself _Solomon_ Made cuckold, you should know, by one John Doe; _Solomon's_ neck was firm enough to bear Some score of antlers more than Roe could wear.
Richard Roe wished himself _Alexander_, Being robbed of house and land by the same hand; Ten thousand acres or a principal town Would have cost _Alexander_ scarce a frown.
Richard Roe wished himself _Job_ the prophet, Sunk past reclaim in stinking rags and shame; _Job's_ plight was utterly bad, his own even worse, He found no God to call on or to curse.
What this Textopian page supports
Richard Roe and John Doe is listed on Textopian as a short story by Robert Graves, dated 1947 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Robert Graves
- Date: 1947 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Satire, Philosophical, Tragedy, Literary Fiction
- Length: 178 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Work identity for Richard Roe and John Doe by Robert Graves
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- The Hour Of The Angel by Rudyard Kipling
- Things And The Man by Rudyard Kipling
- By The Hoof Of The Wild Goat by Rudyard Kipling
- Helen Of Troy by Sara Teasdale
- My Conscience by Robert Louis Stevenson
- A False Report by Robert Graves
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Satire — The text critiques societal norms and human folly through the character's wishes and comparisons.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions and the nature of identity and power.
- Tragedy — The character experiences profound despair and loss, reflecting tragic elements.
Tags
poetry · literature · Robert Graves · identity · self-reflection · mythology · historical figures · cuckoldry · desire · power · loss · suffering