Travel by Robert Louis Stevenson

Name: Travel
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson

The work expresses a longing for adventure and exploration in distant, exotic lands. The speaker yearns to escape to a place filled with vibrant imagery, where nature and civilization intertwine. The narrative paints a picture of paradisiacal locations, such as islands with golden apples, bustling bazaars, and ancient cities surrounded by deserts. The speaker imagines a world rich with diverse cultures, where the sights and sounds of life are abundant. There are references to unique wildlife, such as crocodiles and flamingos, and the presence of both danger and beauty in the jungles and forests. The allure of the unknown is palpable, as the speaker dreams of encountering tigers and navigating through deserted cities that echo with the past. The desire to experience life as a man is emphasized, with aspirations of traveling with a caravan and immersing oneself in the history and stories of ancient civilizations. The imagery evokes a sense of nostalgia and wonder, highlighting the contrast between the speaker's current existence and the vibrant life they envision. The work encapsulates a universal yearning for freedom, adventure, and the richness of life beyond familiar boundaries.

By Robert Louis Stevenson · First published 1878 · Genre: Poetry, Travel Literature, Adventure · 429 words

First lines

I should like to rise and go Where the golden apples grow; -- Where below another sky Parrot Islands anchored lie, And, watched by cockatoos and goats, Lonely Crusoes building boats; -- Where in sunshine reaching out Eastern cities, miles about, Are with mosque and minaret Among sandy gardens set, And the rich goods from near and far Hang for sale in the bazaar; -- Where the Great Wall round China goes, And on one side the desert blows, And with bell and voice and drum, Cities on the other hum; -- Where are forests, hot as fire, Wide as England, tall as a spire, Full of apes and cocoa-nuts And the negro hunters' huts; -- Where the knotty crocodile Lies and blinks in the Nile.

What this Textopian page supports

Travel is listed on Textopian as a poem by Robert Louis Stevenson, dated 1878 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: 1878 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Travel Literature, Adventure, Romanticism, Children's Literature
Length: 429 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and imagery typical of poetry.
Travel Literature — The poem explores various exotic locations and cultures, reflecting the theme of travel.
Adventure — The descriptions of distant lands and adventures suggest an adventurous spirit.
Romanticism — The work expresses a longing for nature and distant places, characteristic of Romantic literature.