Death, to the Dead for Evermore

Name: Death, to the Dead for Evermore
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson

The poem explores the theme of death as a serene and inevitable conclusion to life. It personifies death as a welcoming figure, akin to a host, who greets souls at the end of their mortal journey. The imagery evokes a tranquil afterlife, free from the disturbances of the living world, where eternal rest is promised. The speaker reflects on the weariness of life, suggesting that the burdens of existence—symbolized by hopes, fears, and the clamor of human experience—lead to a longing for peace in death. The contrast between the vibrancy of life and the stillness of death highlights the exhaustion that comes with living. As the poem progresses, it emphasizes the idea that death is not to be feared but embraced as a natural transition. The notion of a "sleeping city" represents the finality of death, where all are equal in their eternal slumber. The poem ultimately conveys a sense of acceptance, portraying death as a release from the struggles of life, inviting the reader to consider the beauty and tranquility that may lie beyond.

By Robert Louis Stevenson · First published 1891 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Meditative · 278 words

First lines

DEATH, to the dead for evermore A King, a God, the last, the best of friends- Whene'er this mortal journey ends Death, like a host, comes smiling to the door; Smiling, he greets us, on that tranquil shore Where neither piping bird nor peeping dawn Disturbs the eternal sleep, But in the stillness far withdrawn Our dreamless rest for evermore we keep.

For as from open windows forth we peep Upon the night-time star beset And with dews for ever wet; So from this garish life the spirit peers; And lo! as a sleeping city death outspread, Where breathe the sleepers evenly; and lo! After the loud wars, triumphs, trumpets, tears And clamour of man's passion, Death appears, And we must rise and go.

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Death, to the Dead for Evermore is listed on Textopian as a poem by Robert Louis Stevenson, dated 1891 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson
Date: 1891 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Meditative, Romanticism, Gothic
Length: 278 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions about death and the afterlife.
Meditative — The tone reflects contemplation and introspection regarding mortality.
Romanticism — The work embodies elements of Romanticism through its emotional depth and focus on nature.