My Shadow by Robert Louis Stevenson

Name: My Shadow
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson

The poem explores the relationship between a child and their shadow, personifying the shadow as a playful yet unpredictable companion. The child observes that the shadow mimics their movements but behaves in a whimsical manner, growing and shrinking in size, unlike typical children. This creates a sense of wonder and curiosity about the nature of the shadow. The child expresses a mix of affection and frustration towards the shadow, noting its cowardice and tendency to cling closely, contrasting it with the independence expected of children. The shadow's behavior is depicted as both amusing and perplexing, as it does not conform to the norms of playfulness. In the early morning, the child wakes to find the world adorned with dew, while the shadow remains asleep, highlighting its lazy and unresponsive nature. This moment emphasizes the contrast between the vibrant, active world and the shadow's passive existence. The poem captures the innocence of childhood imagination, reflecting on themes of identity, companionship, and the playful yet mysterious aspects of one's own shadow.

By Robert Louis Stevenson · First published 1885 · Genre: Children's Poetry, Fantasy, Literary Fiction · 247 words

First lines

I have a little shadow that goes in and out with me, And what can be the use of him is more than I can see.

He is very, very like me, from the heels up to the head; And I see him jump before me, when I jump into my bed.

The funniest thing about him is the way he likes to grow -- Not at all like proper children, which is always very slow; For he sometimes shoots up taller, like an india-rubber ball, And he sometimes gets so little that there's none of him at all.

He hasn't got a notion of how children ought to play, And can only make a fool of me in every sort of way.

What this Textopian page supports

My Shadow 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: Children's Poetry, Fantasy, Literary Fiction, Humor, Nostalgia
Length: 247 words
Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for My Shadow by Robert Louis Stevenson
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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering My Shadow?
How does this poem by Robert Louis Stevenson fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Children's Poetry first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Children's Poetry — The poem is written for children, using simple language and playful themes that engage young readers.
Fantasy — The concept of a shadow that behaves like a character introduces fantastical elements, appealing to the imagination.
Literary Fiction — The poem explores deeper themes of identity and companionship through the metaphor of a shadow.
Humor — The playful tone and whimsical descriptions of the shadow's behavior add a humorous aspect to the poem.