Butterflies by Rudyard Kipling
The poem explores the theme of childhood innocence and the pursuit of beauty, juxtaposed with the harsh realities of nature. Children are depicted chasing butterflies, symbolizing their carefree spirit and desire for wonder. Their efforts lead to physical discomfort, represented by scratches and stings, highlighting the challenges faced in the pursuit of beauty. The father figure intervenes, suggesting a more practical approach by directing the children to gather cabbage leaves, which contain the potential for transformation. This shift from chasing ephemeral beauty to nurturing life reflects a deeper understanding of growth and metamorphosis. The mention of dull grey eggs that become glorious butterflies signifies the potential for change and the cycle of life. The poem contrasts the beauty of heaven with the ugliness of earth, as articulated by a preacher figure. This dichotomy suggests a philosophical perspective on existence, where the pursuit of beauty often overlooks the unpleasant realities of life. The final lines imply a tension between aspiration and the acceptance of mortality, emphasizing that the quest for beauty is intertwined with the inevitability of death. Overall, the work encapsulates the innocence of childhood, the transformative power of nature, and the philosophical reflections on beauty and existence.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1902 · Genre: Poetry, Children's Literature, Nature Writing · 215 words
First lines
Eyes aloft, over dangerous places, The children follow the butterflies, And, in the sweat of their upturned faces, Slash with a net at the empty skies.
So it goes they fall amid brambles, And sting their toes on the nettle-tops, Till, after a thousand scratches and scrambles, They wipe their brows and the hunting stops.
Then to quiet them comes their father And stills the riot of pain and grief, Saying, 'Little ones, go and gather Out of my garden a cabbage-leaf.
'You will find on it whorls and clots of Dull grey eggs that, properly fed, Turn, by way of the worm, to lots of Glorious butterflies raised from the dead.,'
What this Textopian page supports
Butterflies is listed on Textopian as a poem by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1902 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Rudyard Kipling
- Date: 1902 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Children's Literature, Nature Writing, Philosophical Literature, Symbolism
- Length: 215 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and imagery typical of poetry.
- Children's Literature — The poem addresses children, featuring themes of exploration and nature, appealing to a young audience.
- Nature Writing — The poem focuses on butterflies and the natural world, emphasizing the beauty and transformation in nature.
- Philosophical Literature — The poem contains reflections on life, death, and beauty, prompting deeper thought about existence.
Tags
nature · childhood · imagination · innocence · adventure · exploration · fatherhood · transformation · life cycle · butterflies · gardening · pain