Dedication by Robert Louis Stevenson

Name: Dedication
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson

The work is a heartfelt dedication of a collection of songs to a beloved individual. The speaker expresses that these songs represent their only true wealth, emphasizing the personal and intimate nature of the gift. The act of dedicating the songs is portrayed as more significant than receiving widespread acclaim from the world. The speaker values the appreciation and recognition from the beloved over any external validation. The dedication conveys a deep emotional connection, suggesting that the songs are imbued with personal meaning and sentiment. The speaker's desire for the beloved to enjoy and praise the songs highlights the importance of personal relationships over public recognition. The imagery of light in the beloved's eyes symbolizes joy and fulfillment derived from the connection between the speaker and the recipient. As the work progresses, the speaker acknowledges a separation, indicating a divergence in paths. This moment of parting is marked by a sense of finality, as the speaker refers to the dedication as an epitaph and tomb for their love. The metaphor suggests that the act of dedicating the songs is both a celebration of love and a recognition of its impermanence. The overall tone is one of sincerity and depth, reflecting the complexities of love, loss, and the value of personal expression. The speaker's commitment to the beloved is unwavering, even in the face of separation, underscoring the enduring nature of their feelings. The work encapsulates the essence of devotion, highlighting the significance of personal connections in a world often focused on superficial accolades.

By Robert Louis Stevenson · First published 1886 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Dedication · 154 words

First lines

MY first gift and my last, to you / I dedicate this fascicle of songs- / The only wealth I have: / Just as they are, to you.

I speak the truth in soberness, and say / I had rather bring a light to your clear eyes, / Had rather hear you praise / This bosomful of songs

Than that the whole, hard world with one consent, / In one continuous chorus of applause / Poured forth for me and mine / The homage of ripe praise.

I write the finis here against my love, / This is my love's last epitaph and tomb.

Open reader

What this Textopian page supports

Dedication is listed on Textopian as a poem by Robert Louis Stevenson, dated 1886 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: 1886 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Dedication, Lyric, Elegy
Length: 154 words
Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Dedication 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 structured as a poem, utilizing lyrical language and a rhythmic quality.
Romanticism — Themes of love, personal expression, and emotional depth are central to the text.
Dedication — The title and content focus on the act of dedicating the work to a loved one.
Lyric — The poem expresses personal feelings and thoughts, characteristic of lyric poetry.