Now when the Number of my Years

Name: Now when the Number of my Years
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson

The poem reflects on the themes of life, death, and the acceptance of mortality. The speaker contemplates the end of their life, expressing a desire for a peaceful burial beneath the vast sky. There is a sense of fulfillment in the speaker's life, as they acknowledge their years and the inevitability of death. The repetition of the phrase "Bury me low and let me lie" emphasizes a longing for simplicity and tranquility in death. The speaker conveys a sense of joy in both living and dying, suggesting a harmonious relationship with the cycle of life. They assert that their soul is clear, and their actions have been honorable, indicating a life lived with integrity. The absence of fear and the rejection of the pursuit of fame highlight a focus on personal values over societal expectations. Imagery of nature, such as valleys, breezes, and streams, evokes a serene and idyllic setting for the final resting place. This connection to the natural world reinforces the theme of returning to the earth and finding peace in death. The poem ultimately celebrates a life well-lived, marked by joy and freedom, and embraces the inevitability of death as a natural conclusion.

By Robert Louis Stevenson · First published 1896 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Lyrical · 216 words

First lines

NOW when the number of my years Is all fulfilled, and I From sedentary life Shall rouse me up to die, Bury me low and let me lie Under the wide and starry sky.

Joying to live, I joyed to die, Bury me low and let me lie.

Clear was my soul, my deeds were free, Honour was called my name, I fell not back from fear Nor followed after fame.

Bury me low and let me lie Under the wide and starry sky.

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Now when the Number of my Years is listed on Textopian as a short story by Robert Louis Stevenson, dated 1896 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson
Date: 1896 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Lyrical, Nature, Meditative
Length: 216 words
Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of life, death, and nature.
Philosophical — The poem explores existential themes regarding the meaning of life and acceptance of death.
Lyrical — The emotional expression and personal reflection on life and mortality characterize the lyrical nature of the poem.
Nature — The imagery of the natural world is prominent, emphasizing the connection between life, death, and the environment.