Poem by Martial (Marcus Valerius Martialis)
Here are the things, dear friend, which make life not impossible to take:
Riches bequeathed, not won by toil;
Fire on the hearth; responsive soil;
No law suits but wise disarmingness;
A healthy body, and a mind alert,
But peaceably inclined;
Congenial guests; a table set
Without excessive etiquette;
Nights free from worry,
A bed warm with the presence
Of a significant other,
Slumber, to make the shadows swift,
Contentment with your native gifts;
And, without longing or dismay,
The prospect of your final day.
2006-09-25 05:51:45 · 6 answers · asked by meow 1 in Education & Reference ➔ Higher Education (University +)
It's perfectly minimalist. Nothing Martial mentions is extravagant, unrealistic, or unobtainable. He eloquently descibes the elemental necessities for a social creature: health, a modicum of prosperity, good company, love, warmth, and restful nights. They're not what any typical person would wish for if he found a bottled-up genie, but they are the elements of happiness and contentment that coalesce into a life lived well.
2006-09-25 06:06:54 · answer #1 · answered by ? 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Most of this poem is beautiful. I do not however agree with the line "Riches bequeathed, not won by toil;" Riches are something to be earned. How can you appreciate riches given to you by a bequest- a gift from the Dead? Mommy and/or Daddy taking care of you after passing. The silver spoon in your mouth, will leave a funny taste, after a while. I'm proud of everything I have EARNED!
2006-09-25 08:00:19 · answer #2 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It has a pleasant flavour in the mental mouth,You sound as if your from down south.At first the wording seemed to pierce my eye,but it settled down to a warm emotional pie.
2006-09-25 06:01:17 · answer #3 · answered by onelonevoice 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
This is beautiful, I think it's what everyone can relate to because everyone wants it.
2006-09-25 05:54:56 · answer #4 · answered by Rebecca V 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Endless serenity.... beautiful.
2006-09-25 06:00:24 · answer #5 · answered by ? 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I loved it!!!!!! it was great!!!!!!!! did you wright it??
2006-09-25 06:00:58 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋