Ad Se Ipsum by Robert Louis Stevenson
The work is a reflective poem addressing the journey of self-discovery and personal growth. It begins with a greeting to a recipient, recalling a time five years prior when the speaker embarked on a challenging path. The speaker acknowledges the flaws and shortcomings that were projected onto another, hinting at a struggle with self-identity and the burdens of one's own nature. As the poem progresses, the speaker contemplates the unexpected clarity and support received along the way, attributing this guidance to a higher power. The invocation of divine assistance suggests a reliance on faith to navigate life's complexities. The speaker expresses a desire for continued support in overcoming obstacles, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and humility in the face of adversity. The tone oscillates between introspection and gratitude, revealing a deep awareness of the interplay between personal flaws and the external forces that shape one's journey. The work ultimately serves as a meditation on the human experience, highlighting the significance of self-acceptance and the pursuit of a clearer path in life.
By Robert Louis Stevenson · First published 1885 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Literary Fiction · 88 words
First lines
DEAR sir, good-morrow! Five years back, / When you first girded for this arduous track, / And under various whimsical pretexts / Endowed another with your damned defects, / Could you have dreamed in your despondent vein / That the kind God would make your path so plain? / Non nobis, domine! O, may He still / Support my stumbling footsteps on the hill!
What this Textopian page supports
Ad Se Ipsum 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, Literary Fiction, Spiritual, Satire
- Length: 88 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Ad Se Ipsum by Robert Louis Stevenson
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Philosophical — The themes explore self-reflection and existential contemplation.
- Literary Fiction — The writing style is introspective and character-driven, focusing on personal experience.
- Spiritual — The text references divine support and guidance, indicating a spiritual dimension.
Tags
self-reflection · personal growth · spirituality · struggle · journey · faith · humility · divine guidance · introspection · overcoming adversity · wisdom · life lessons
More by Robert Louis Stevenson
- Treasure Island (1883)
- The Pavilion on the Links (1909)
- Olalla (1885)
- A Child's Garden of Verses (1885)
- Father Damien, An Open Letter To The Reverend Doctor Hyde Of Honolulu (1914)
- A Lowden Sabbath Morn (1916)
- Songs of Travel and Other Verses (1908)
- Prayers Written At Vailima (1916)
- All works by Robert Louis Stevenson