Rimini by Rudyard Kipling (1893)
The narrative follows a soldier's journey, driven by love for a woman named Lalage. He recalls his departure from home, motivated by her promise of devotion. As he travels through various regions, including Britain and Gaul, he reflects on the losses he has endured—not only of lands but also of Lalage's affection. The soldier's experiences highlight the transient nature of glory and the sacrifices made in the name of love. The poem contrasts the soldier's romantic aspirations with the harsh realities of military life. It emphasizes the theme of loyalty, both to one's homeland and to personal relationships. The soldier's longing for Lalage serves as a poignant reminder of what he has sacrificed for duty. The repeated refrain about the Via Aurelia underscores the inevitability of loss and the bittersweet nature of memory. As the soldier marches, he contemplates the fate of those who have come before him, suggesting a cycle of ambition and regret. The imagery of the Eagles and Ravens symbolizes the duality of honor and mortality in the soldier's life. Ultimately, the soldier expresses a preference for love over power, valuing his connection to Lalage more than the potential for greatness as an emperor. The work encapsulates the tension between personal desires and the demands of duty, illustrating the soldier's internal conflict and the enduring power of love amidst the chaos of war.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1893 · Genre: Poetry, Historical Fiction, Romance · 428 words
First lines
(Marching Song of a Roman Legion of the Later Empire)
When I left home for Lalage's sake By the Legions' road to Rimini, She vowed her heart was mine to take With me and my shield to Rimini -- (Till the Eagles flew from Rimini! ) And I've tramped Britain, and I've tramped Gaul, And the Pontic shore where the snow-flakes fall As white as the neck of Lalage -- (As cold as the heart of Lalage! ) And I've lost Britain, and I've lost Gaul, And I've lost Rome, and worst of all, I've lost Lalage!
What this Textopian page supports
Rimini 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: Poetry, Historical Fiction, Romance, Military Literature, Adventure
- Length: 428 words
- Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of love, loss, and the soldier's journey.
- Historical Fiction — The poem references historical elements such as Roman legions and locations, blending fictional narrative with historical context.
- Romance — The central theme revolves around love and longing for Lalage, highlighting emotional connections.
- Military Literature — The poem discusses the experiences and fate of soldiers, reflecting on their lives and sacrifices.
Tags
Rudyard Kipling · poetry · Roman Empire · legion · marching song · love · loss · Lalage · soldier · journey · historical · military