Good and Bad Children

Name: Good and Bad Children
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson

The work presents a moralistic view on the behavior of children, contrasting the virtues of good conduct with the consequences of bad behavior. It emphasizes the importance of being gentle, composed, and content with simple pleasures to foster growth into wise and noble individuals. The text suggests that children who embody these qualities will lead happy lives, reminiscent of historical figures who achieved greatness. In contrast, the narrative warns against unruly and gluttonous behavior, indicating that such traits lead to a life of disdain and isolation. The portrayal of cruel and disruptive children serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating that their negative actions will result in social rejection and unhappiness as they mature. The work ultimately advocates for innocence, honesty, and a harmonious existence, suggesting that these traits are essential for a fulfilling life and positive relationships. The rhythmic and didactic nature of the verses reinforces the message, making it accessible and memorable for young readers. The juxtaposition of good and bad children serves to instill a sense of moral responsibility, encouraging self-reflection and the cultivation of virtuous behavior from an early age.

By Robert Louis Stevenson · First published 1896 · Genre: Children's Poetry, Didactic Literature, Lyrical Poetry · 183 words

First lines

Children, you are very little, And your bones are very brittle; If you would grow great and stately, You must try to walk sedately.

You must still be bright and quiet, And content with simple diet; And remain, through all bewild'ring, Innocent and honest children.

Happy hearts and happy faces, Happy play in grassy places -- That was how, in ancient ages, Children grew to kings and sages.

But the unkind and the unruly, And the sort who eat unduly, They must never hope for glory -- Theirs is quite a different story!

What this Textopian page supports

Good and Bad Children is listed on Textopian as a poem by Robert Louis Stevenson, dated 1896 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: 1896 CE
Language: English
Genres: Children's Poetry, Didactic Literature, Lyrical Poetry, Moral Literature, Children's Literature
Length: 183 words
Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

Good citation fit

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Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Children's Poetry — The work is a poem specifically aimed at children, using simple language and themes relevant to their understanding.
Didactic Literature — The poem teaches moral lessons about behavior and the consequences of being good or bad.
Lyrical Poetry — The poem employs a lyrical style, focusing on rhythm and sound to engage young readers.
Moral Literature — The themes revolve around morality, contrasting good and bad behavior in children.