The Married Man by Rudyard Kipling
The narrative explores the contrasting experiences of married men and bachelors, particularly in the context of military service. It highlights the burdens and responsibilities that come with marriage, emphasizing that a married man fights not just for himself but for his family. The poem illustrates the married man's sense of duty and the weight of his obligations, which often leads to a more cautious and strategic approach in combat situations. The married man is depicted as more concerned about survival and returning home to his loved ones, while the bachelor is portrayed as carefree and willing to take risks. This dynamic creates a tension between the two types of men, showcasing the married man's deeper motivations and the sacrifices he makes for his family. The poem also touches on themes of loyalty, responsibility, and the emotional toll of war, suggesting that the married man's fight is not just physical but also deeply personal. Ultimately, the work reflects on the nature of commitment and the complexities of relationships, illustrating how love and duty shape one's actions and decisions in times of conflict. The married man's desire to return home to his family serves as a poignant reminder of what is at stake in war, contrasting with the bachelor’s more self-centered perspective. The piece concludes with a recognition of the married man's resilience and the importance of family ties in navigating life's challenges.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1910 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Social Commentary · 648 words
First lines
(RESERVIST OF THE LINE)
The bachelor 'e fights for one As joyful as can be; But the married man don't call it fun, Because 'e fights for three -- For 'Im an' 'Er an' It (An' Two an' One makes Three) 'E wants to finish 'is little bit, An' 'e wants to go 'ome to 'is tea!
What this Textopian page supports
The Married Man is listed on Textopian as a short story by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1910 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Rudyard Kipling
- Date: 1910 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Humor, Social Commentary, War Literature, Narrative
- Length: 648 words
- Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Humor — The poem uses wit and irony to contrast the lives of bachelors and married men, highlighting humorous aspects of marriage.
- Social Commentary — The poem reflects on societal roles and expectations of men in marriage versus bachelorhood.
- War Literature — The poem references the experiences of men in combat, particularly the responsibilities of married men.
Tags
marriage · war · bachelor · responsibility · family · duty · sacrifice · humor · Kipling · poetry · life · struggle