Robert Louis Stevenson was born on 13th November 1850, and passed away on 3rd December 1894. This immortal poem by Robert Louis Stevenson “Requiem” was written in 1880, soon after a close friend passed away. The poem conveys a sense of hope and tranquillity while capturing the deep emotion of loss and grief, and today, it is among the most widely-read funeral poems.
Robert Louis Stevenson (1850–1894) is celebrated as one of Scotland’s greatest literary figures, renowned for his novels like Treasure Island and Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. However, Stevenson’s influence as a poet, though sometimes overshadowed by his prose, is profound. His poetry, marked by its clarity, rhythm, and emotional depth, has inspired generations of readers and writers alike. For many, still to this day Robert Louis Stevenson will live on.
Scottish poet, novelist, and essayist Stevenson is famous for his poetry and short stories, in addition to his adventure books, which are his best-known works. This poem by Robert Louis Stevenson is typical at funerals for notable people and regular folks. Stevenson’s early exposure to literature was helped by a love of nature and travel. These themes that would recur throughout his poetry. His journeys across Europe, America, and the South Pacific infused his work with a worldwide outlook, reflecting a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and natural beauty.
The funeral for Senator John McCain in 2018 was one of the most notable performances of “Requiem.” The poem by Robert Louis Stevenson has a central theme—death as a peaceful sleep and an eternal rest—paid apt homage to the late senator’s life and work. Meghan McCain, the Senator’s daughter, read it aloud during the ceremony, giving the solemn event a personal touch.
“A Child’s Garden of Verses”
Perhaps Stevenson’s most influential poetic work is “A Child’s Garden of Verses” (1885). This is a collection of poems that captures the innocence, imagination, and wonder of childhood. Written while he was bedridden due to illness, the collection draws on his own childhood experiences, presenting a child’s perspective on the world with simplicity and lyrical beauty.
Another poem by Robert Louis Stevenson such as “The Land of Counterpane,” “My Shadow,” and “Foreign Lands” explore themes of play, and curiosity. The collection’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke universal feelings of nostalgia and wonder. It has been cherished by both children and adults, influencing the development of children’s poetry as a distinct genre.
Influence on poetic style and themes
Stevenson’s poetry is characterised by its rhythmic precision, musicality, and accessibility. His use of vivid imagery and straightforward language makes his work both relatable and memorable. By focusing on the joys and trials of everyday life, he bridged the gap between the personal and the universal.
His exploration of nature and travel also influenced subsequent generations of poets. In poems such as “Travel” and “Summer Sun,” Stevenson captures the beauty of the natural world with attention for detail. This emphasis on nature and adventure resonated with the romantic reader, while offering a fresh perspective from personal experience.
Requiem: A Poem By Robert Louis Stevenson
Moreover, this funeral poem by Robert Louis Stevenson addresses the challenging feelings of grief by stating that, despite one’s pain, time will finally offer calm and healing. The words are consoling and uplifting since they promote acceptance of the situation while looking for a better future. Also, the requiem lyrics remind us that despite our difficulties, life will continue, and we may navigate it with courage and tenacity.
“Requiem” a Powerful Poem by Robert Louis Stevenson
Under the wide and starry sky, Dig the grave and let me lie. Glad did I live and gladly die, And I laid me down with a will This be the verse you grave for me: Here he lies where he longed to be; Home is the sailor, home from sea, And the hunter home from the hill.
For more poem inspiration visit the Save Funeral Costs blog of funeral poems.
