M. I by Rudyard Kipling (1893)

Name: M. I
Author: Rudyard Kipling

The narrative follows a soldier's experiences and reflections as part of a mounted infantry unit during a military campaign, likely set in the context of the Second Boer War. The soldier expresses a sense of camaraderie and identity among his fellow troops, who are often overlooked and underappreciated compared to traditional cavalry units. The soldier recounts the hardships faced, including physical ailments from the harsh environment, the lack of proper equipment, and the grueling demands of their duties. He highlights the transformation from a conventional soldier to a member of the mounted infantry, emphasizing the practical skills and adaptability required for survival in the field. The tone is both humorous and poignant, as the soldier contrasts his current reality with his past expectations of military life. He reflects on the irony of their situation, where they are essential yet marginalized, often blamed for logistical issues and seen as the "orphaned" soldiers of the army. Throughout the work, there is a recurring refrain that reinforces their identity as "M. I."—a term that encapsulates their role and experiences. The soldier's longing for recognition and understanding from those outside their unit is palpable, as he wishes for his mother to see him in his current state, embodying the grit and resilience of the mounted infantry. The narrative culminates in a call to action, urging his comrades to prepare for the next phase of their journey, underscoring the relentless nature of military life and the bond formed through shared struggle. The work captures the essence of soldiering, the camaraderie among troops, and the often-overlooked contributions of those in less glamorous roles within the military hierarchy.

By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1893 · Genre: War Poetry, Narrative Poetry, Satire · 1,345 words

First lines

(MOUNTED INFANTRY OF THE LINE)

I wish my mother could see me now, with a fence-post under my arm, And a knife and a spoon in my putties that I found on a Boer farm, Atop of a sore-backed Argentine, with a thirst that you couldn't buy. I used to be in the Yorkshires once (Sussex, Lincolns, and Rifles once), Hampshires, Glosters, and Scottish once! (_ad lib._) But now I am M. I.

What this Textopian page supports

M. I is listed on Textopian as a poem by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1893 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: 1893 CE
Language: English
Genres: War Poetry, Narrative Poetry, Satire, Historical Fiction, Lyric Poetry
Length: 1,345 words
Structure: 1 section, 19 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering M. I?
How does this poem by Rudyard Kipling fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does War Poetry first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

War Poetry — The poem reflects the experiences and sentiments of soldiers during wartime, focusing on the harsh realities of military life.
Narrative Poetry — The poem tells a story through its verses, detailing the life and struggles of the M. I. soldiers.
Satire — The poem employs humor and irony to critique military bureaucracy and the romanticized notions of war.
Historical Fiction — The poem is set against the backdrop of historical military conflicts, providing insight into the era's social and political context.