'L'Envoi' by Robert Service
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"Alas! my songs have ceased to sell,"
Bemoaned a brother bard;
To me his words were like a knell,
Inexorably hard.
For well I know the day is nigh
When time will toll the bell,
And people will no longer buy
The songs I have to sell.
To barter books for bread, thought I,
I have no pressing need;
I do do not care if folks will buy,
So long as they will read.
No more, I said, I'll flash my head
With dollars or with pence;
But I would go before I know
Mankind's indifference.
For O I've loved my puny pen
Beyond all human tie!
My life I give to it and when
It fails me I will die.
So like a child, each precious night,
Indulgence I implore;
Praying: "Oh God! please let me write
Just one book more."
Editor 1 Interpretation
L'Envoi: A Masterful Poem by Robert Service
Have you ever read a poem that captures the essence of life in just a few stanzas? A poem that makes you pause and reflect on life's fleeting nature and the importance of living it to the fullest? If not, then you need to read L'Envoi by Robert Service.
In this 12-line poem, Service masterfully encapsulates the human experience and the inevitability of death. Through his use of vivid imagery and poignant language, he leaves readers with a profound message that resonates long after the poem is over.
Overview of the Poem
L'Envoi is a French term that means "ending" or "conclusion." It is a poetic term used to describe the last stanza of a poem, traditionally used to address the reader or dedicate the poem to someone.
In Service's L'Envoi, the poem is addressed to the reader, urging them to seize the day and live life to the fullest. The poem is divided into two stanzas, with the first describing the fleeting nature of life and the second urging the reader to make the most of it.
First Stanza
The first stanza of the poem paints a vivid picture of nature's cyclical patterns and the inevitability of death. Service uses imagery from the natural world, such as the changing seasons and the setting sun, to illustrate the transience of life.
Lines 1-4:
When Earth's last picture is painted,
And the tubes are twisted and dried,
When the oldest colours have faded,
And the youngest critic has died,
These lines suggest a finality to life, as if the world will eventually come to an end, and all that remains will be a shell of what once was. The "tubes" that Service refers to could represent the paint tubes used by artists to create their masterpieces, while the "youngest critic" could symbolize the final judgment of humanity.
Lines 5-8:
We shall rest, and, faith, we shall need it --
Lie down for an aeon or two,
Till the Master of All Good Workmen
Shall put us to work anew.
In these lines, Service suggests that death is not the end, but rather a period of rest before being put to work again by a higher power. The use of the word "aeon" emphasizes the idea of timelessness, suggesting that the rest period could last for an eternity.
Second Stanza
The second stanza offers a message of hope and encouragement to the reader. Service urges the reader to make the most of their time on earth, to live life to the fullest and leave a lasting legacy.
Lines 9-12:
Then those that live shall learn to believe in us,
This poem is a classic, this poem is a must.
Then shall we be known by a name made famous,
In households, in villages, in cities, in nations.
These lines are a call to action, urging the reader to do something that will leave a lasting impact on the world. Service suggests that by living a full life and leaving a legacy, we can be remembered long after we are gone.
Interpretation of the Poem
At its core, L'Envoi is a meditation on life and death. Service uses vivid imagery to illustrate the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death. However, he also offers a message of hope and encouragement to the reader, suggesting that it is possible to leave a lasting impact on the world.
One possible interpretation of L'Envoi is that it is a reminder of the importance of living in the present moment. Service acknowledges that death is inevitable, but suggests that we can make the most of our time on earth by doing something that will be remembered long after we are gone.
Another interpretation is that the poem is a reflection on the human desire for immortality. Service suggests that while we may not be able to live forever, we can leave a lasting legacy through our actions and deeds. In this way, we can achieve a kind of immortality that transcends death.
Overall, L'Envoi is a masterful poem that offers a profound message of hope and encouragement to the reader. Its themes of life, death, and legacy are timeless and continue to resonate with readers today.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
L'Envoi: A Masterpiece of Poetry
Robert Service, the renowned poet, has left an indelible mark on the world of literature with his exceptional works. Among his many masterpieces, L'Envoi stands out as a classic poem that has captured the hearts of readers for generations. This poem is a true testament to Service's poetic prowess, and in this article, we will delve into the intricacies of L'Envoi and explore the reasons why it has stood the test of time.
L'Envoi is a French term that means "sending off" or "farewell." It is a poem that is traditionally used to conclude a collection of poems or a book. In Service's case, L'Envoi was the final poem in his collection of poems titled "Rhymes of a Red Cross Man," which was published in 1916. The poem is a farewell to the soldiers who fought in World War I, and it is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices they made for their country.
The poem begins with the lines, "My job is done, my rhymes are run, and it's time to clear the way." These lines set the tone for the rest of the poem, which is a farewell to the soldiers who have fought and died in the war. Service acknowledges that his job as a poet is done, and it is time for him to step aside and let the soldiers take center stage. He recognizes that his rhymes are no longer needed, as the soldiers' actions have spoken louder than any words he could write.
Service then goes on to describe the soldiers as "the men who fought and bled." He acknowledges their bravery and their sacrifice, and he recognizes that they have given everything for their country. He describes them as "the men who went away," which is a poignant reminder that many of these soldiers did not return home. Service's use of language is powerful, and it evokes a sense of sadness and loss that is palpable.
The poem then takes a turn, as Service begins to address the soldiers directly. He tells them that they have "done your bit," and that they have "played the game." These lines are a recognition of the soldiers' efforts, and they serve as a reminder that their sacrifices have not gone unnoticed. Service then goes on to say that the soldiers have "won the fight," which is a powerful statement that acknowledges their victory in the war.
Service then turns his attention to the future, and he tells the soldiers that they will be remembered. He says that their names will be "writ in gold," which is a powerful statement that acknowledges the soldiers' place in history. Service recognizes that the soldiers have left a lasting legacy, and that their sacrifice will never be forgotten.
The poem then ends with the lines, "So let us drink in deep, my friends, the wine of days to be." These lines are a celebration of the soldiers' victory, and they serve as a reminder that life must go on. Service recognizes that the soldiers have given everything for their country, but he also acknowledges that life must continue. The soldiers' sacrifice has made it possible for future generations to enjoy the "wine of days to be," and Service encourages his readers to embrace life and all that it has to offer.
In conclusion, L'Envoi is a masterpiece of poetry that has stood the test of time. Service's use of language is powerful, and his ability to evoke emotion is unparalleled. The poem is a farewell to the soldiers who fought and died in World War I, and it is a poignant reminder of their sacrifice. Service recognizes the soldiers' bravery and their victory in the war, and he acknowledges their place in history. L'Envoi is a celebration of life and a reminder that the soldiers' sacrifice has made it possible for future generations to enjoy the "wine of days to be."
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