Not Yet, my Soul

Name: Not Yet, my Soul
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson

The poem explores the tension between life and the desire for transcendence. It begins with a plea from the speaker's soul to remain in the earthly realm, appreciating the beauty of nature and the connections formed with love and life. The imagery of friendly fields, rivers, and the songs of birds evokes a sense of attachment to the physical world. The speaker acknowledges the inevitability of departure but urges the soul to delay this journey. There is a recognition of the intertwined nature of existence, where love and service are essential components of the human experience. The soul is reminded of its responsibilities and the debts incurred through life, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling one's duties before leaving. The poem reflects on the idea of struggle and perseverance, likening life to a battlefield where each moment is a chance to conquer challenges. The speaker encourages the soul to defend its physical form, suggesting that the body is under siege and requires active engagement in life. As the poem progresses, it acknowledges the transient nature of fortune and the inevitability of loss. Despite this, the speaker emphasizes the value of living in the present and finding joy in the ongoing battle of existence. The captain metaphor serves as a metaphor for resilience, highlighting the importance of rallying in the face of adversity. Ultimately, the work conveys a profound appreciation for life, urging the soul to embrace its earthly journey, fulfill its obligations, and find meaning in the struggle before contemplating departure. The themes of duty, love, and the beauty of existence resonate throughout, creating a poignant reflection on the human condition.

By Robert Louis Stevenson · First published 1896 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual · 456 words

First lines

NOT yet, my soul, these friendly fields desert, Where thou with grass, and rivers, and the breeze, And the bright face of day, thy dalliance hadst; Where to thine ear first sang the enraptured birds; Where love and thou that lasting bargain made.

The ship rides trimmed, and from the eternal shore Thou hearest airy voices; but not yet Depart, my soul, not yet awhile depart.

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Not Yet, my Soul is listed on Textopian as a poem by Robert Louis Stevenson, dated 1896 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson
Date: 1896 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual, Romanticism, Meditative
Length: 456 words
Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is structured in verse, employing rhythm and imagery typical of poetry.
Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions about life, duty, and the soul's journey.
Spiritual — The text reflects on the soul's connection to life, love, and the divine.
Romanticism — The work emphasizes emotion, nature, and the individual's experience.