Tranquilism

 I call myself a Tranquilist;
With deep detachment I exist,
 From friction free;
While others court the gilded throng
And worship Women, Wine and Song,
 I scorn the three.
For I have reached the sober age
When I prefer to turn a page
 Beside the fire,
And from the busy mart of men
To meditative book and pen
 With grace retire.

If you are craving peace of mind,
In Tranquilism you will find
 Philosophy;
Serenely fold your hands and wait
Be cloistered calm whatever fate
 The Gods decree.
And though the world with rage be rent,
Hold it remote and claim content
 With quiet heart;
You can't do much to better it,
But your good-will may help a bit,
 Ere you depart.

So let us who are old and sere
To din of battle shut the ear,
 And trumpet vain;
And though in no monastic mood
Accept the balm of solitude
 And grace regain.
Let us be Tranquilists and try
In placid places to apply
 Life's wisdom won;
In Nature's bounty we may bless
The Gods and wait with thankfulness
 Our setting sun.

Form: Tercet Comments

Comments About This Poem

Share your interpretation, favorite passage, or thoughts about this famous poem. Please provide an in-depth and meaningful comment.

  • What do you think the poet was trying to say?
  • Which line had the biggest impact on you?
  • How does this poem relate to modern life?
  • What literary devices did you notice?
No comments have been posted yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace