Ad Martialem by Robert Louis Stevenson

Name: Ad Martialem
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson

The poem explores the longing for a simpler, more authentic life, contrasting it with the complexities and distractions of societal expectations and materialism. The speaker expresses a desire to escape the burdens of wealth, legal disputes, and the superficiality of fame. Instead, they yearn for a life filled with genuine experiences, such as nature, companionship, and intellectual pursuits. The imagery evokes a pastoral setting where the speaker envisions a tranquil existence, free from the pressures of modern life. The mention of "baths, wells and meads" suggests a return to nature and a focus on physical and mental well-being. The speaker reflects on the fleeting nature of life, emphasizing the inevitability of mortality and the urgency to embrace a more meaningful existence. The poem's tone is contemplative, urging the reader to consider the value of true companionship and the richness of life beyond material possessions. It serves as a critique of societal norms that prioritize wealth and status over personal fulfillment and connection. The closing lines underscore a sense of urgency, questioning when individuals will awaken to the importance of living authentically and appreciating the transient beauty of life.

By Robert Louis Stevenson · First published 1885 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Romanticism · 174 words

First lines

GO(D) knows, my Martial, if we two could be / To enjoy our days set wholly free; / To the true life together bend our mind, / And take a furlough from the falser kind.

No rich saloon, nor palace of the great, / Nor suit at law should trouble our estate; / On no vainglorious statues should we look, / But of a walk, a talk, a little book, / Baths, wells and meads, and the veranda shade, / Let all our travels and our toils be made.

Now neither lives unto himself, alas! / And the good suns we see, that flash and pass / And perish; and the bell that knells them cries: / "Another gone: O when will ye arise? "

Open reader

What this Textopian page supports

Ad Martialem is listed on Textopian as a poem by Robert Louis Stevenson, dated 1885 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: 1885 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Romanticism, Literary Fiction, Meditative
Length: 174 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Ad Martialem by Robert Louis Stevenson
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
Readability and classroom-planning context
Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions and the nature of life and freedom.
Romanticism — The emphasis on nature, personal reflection, and emotional depth aligns with Romantic ideals.
Literary Fiction — The focus on character introspection and thematic depth categorizes it within literary fiction.