A Mile an' a Bittock

Name: A Mile an' a Bittock
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson

The narrative unfolds in a rural setting, capturing a moment shared among friends as they traverse familiar paths under the moonlight. The characters, Davie, Donal', and Cherlie, engage in camaraderie, reflecting on their bond and the passage of time. The moon serves as a constant symbol, illuminating their journey and the memories they create together. As the night progresses, the atmosphere shifts with the sounds of clocks chiming, marking the late hour. The friends' interactions reveal a sense of warmth and loyalty, as they express intentions to support one another. However, fatigue sets in, prompting Davie to announce his departure for rest, highlighting the inevitable separation that comes with time. The scene transitions into dawn, where the natural world awakens, and the friends' conversations continue. The imagery of birds and the changing light signifies the cycle of life and the enduring nature of their friendship. The narrative reflects on nostalgia, urging the characters to remember their shared experiences and the comfort of their past. Ultimately, the work encapsulates themes of friendship, memory, and the passage of time, all framed within the serene yet transient beauty of the night and the dawn that follows. The moonlight serves as a metaphor for clarity and connection, reminding the characters—and the reader—of the bonds that persist despite life's inevitable changes.

By Robert Louis Stevenson · First published 1895 · Genre: Poetry, Lyric, Romanticism · 364 words

First lines

A MILE an' a bittock, a mile or twa, Abüthe burn, ayont the law, Davie an' Donal' an' Cherlie an' a', An' the müne was shinin' clearly!

Ane went hame wi' the ither, an' then The ither went hame wi' the ither twa men, An' baith wad return him the service again, An' the müne was shinin' clearly!

What this Textopian page supports

A Mile an' a Bittock is listed on Textopian as a poem by Robert Louis Stevenson, dated 1895 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson
Date: 1895 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Lyric, Romanticism, Narrative, Scottish Literature
Length: 364 words
Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and rhyme, characteristic of poetry.
Lyric — The poem expresses personal feelings and reflections, typical of lyric poetry.
Romanticism — Themes of nature, nostalgia, and friendship align with Romantic ideals.
Narrative — The poem tells a story involving characters and their experiences.