safe journey poems

Destinations

18 Poems About Travel to Inspire Your Traveler’s Soul to See the World

This site uses affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Within the depths of every adventurous spirit lies a yearning for exploration, a longing to traverse the far reaches of the Earth, and a desire to witness the wonders that lie beyond our familiar horizons.

The world is a tapestry of enchanting landscapes, vibrant cultures, and hidden treasures, inviting us to venture forth and embrace its splendor.

Through the evocative power of poetry, let us embark on a journey of inspiration and discovery , as these poems transport us to distant lands, stoke the flames of wanderlust, and awaken the traveler within. So pack your bags, open your heart to the allure of the unknown, and let these verses guide you to see the world with new eyes. Welcome to poems about travel to inspire your traveler’s soul.

The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,

And sorry I could not travel both

And be one traveler, long I stood

And looked down one as far as I could

To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, as just as fair,

And having perhaps the better claim,

Because it was grassy and wanted wear;

Though as for that the passing there

Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay

In leaves no step had trodden black.

Oh, I kept the first for another day!

Yet knowing how way leads on to way,

I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh

Somewhere ages and ages hence:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.

The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost / Poems About Travel

Against the Shore by Atticus

against the shore,

restless like

for any adventure,

that blew along her way

Against the Shore by Atticus / Poems About Travel

The Opportune Moment by Sheenagh Pugh

When you go ashore in that town,

take neither a camera nor a notebook.

However many photographs you upload

of that street, the smell of almond paste

will be missing; the harbour will not sound

of wind slapping on chains. You will read

notes like “Sami church”, later, and know

you saw nothing, never put it where

you could find it again, were never

really there. When you go ashore

in the small port with the rusty trawlers,

there will be fur hawkers who all look

like Genghis Khan on a market stall,

crumbling pavements, roses frozen in bud,

an altar with wool hangings, vessels

like canal ware, a Madonna

with a Russian doll face. When you go

ashore, take nothing but the knowledge

that where you are, you never will be again.

The Opportune Moment by Sheenagh Pugh / Poems About Travel Journeys

A Prayer for Travelers by Anon

May the road rise up to meet you.

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face;

The rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

A Prayer for Travelers by Anon / Travel Poetry

Song of the Open Road by Walt Whitman

Afoot and light-hearted I take to the open road,

Healthy, free, the world before me,

The long brown path before me leading me wherever I choose.

Henceforth I ask not good-fortune, I myself am good-fortune,

Henceforth I whimper no more, postpone no more, need nothing,

Done with indoor complaints, libraries, querulous criticisms,

Strong and content I travel the open road.

Song of the Open Road by Walt Whitman / Poems About Traveling Through Life

Travel by Edna St. Vincent Millay

The railroad track is miles away,

And the day is loud with voices speaking,

Yet there isn’t a train goes by all day

But I hear its whistle shrieking.

All night there isn’t a train goes by,

Though the night is still for sleep and dreaming,

But I see its cinders red on the sky,

And hear its engine steaming.

My heart is warm with the friends I make,

And better friends I’ll not be knowing;

Yet there isn’t a train I wouldn’t take,

No matter where it’s going.

Travel by Edna St. Vincent Millay / Poems About Travel

On the World by Francis Quarles

The world’s an inn; and I her guest.

I eat; I drink; I take my rest.

My hostess, nature, does deny me

Nothing, wherewith she can supply me;

Where, having stayed a while, I pay

Her lavish bills, and go my way.

On the World by Francis Quarles / Poems About Traveling the World

Die Slowly by Martha Medeiros

He who becomes the slave of habit,

who follows the same routes every day,

who never changes pace,

who does not risk and change the color of his clothes,

who does not speak and does not experience,

dies slowly.

He or she who shuns passion,

who prefers black on white,

dotting ones i’s rather than a bundle of emotions, the kind that make your eyes glimmer,

that turn a yawn into a smile,

that make the heart pound in the face of mistakes and feelings,

He or she who does not turn things topsy-turvy,

who is unhappy at work,

who does not risk certainty for uncertainty,

to thus follow a dream,

those who do not forego sound advice at least once in their lives,

die slowly.

He who does not travel, who does not read,

who does not listen to music,

who does not find grace in himself,

she who does not find grace in herself,

He who slowly destroys his own self-esteem,

who does not allow himself to be helped,

who spends days on end complaining about his own bad luck, about the rain that never stops,

He or she who abandons a project before starting it, who fails to ask questions on subjects he doesn’t know, he or she who doesn’t reply when they are asked something they do know,

Let’s try and avoid death in small doses,

reminding oneself that being alive requires an effort far greater than the simple fact of breathing.

Only a burning patience will lead

to the attainment of a splendid happiness

Die Slowly by Martha Medeiros / Poems About Why You Need to Travel

If Once You Have Slept on an Island by Rachel Field

If once you have slept on an island

You’ll never be quite the same;

You may look as you looked the day before

And go by the same old name,

You may bustle about in street and shop;

You may sit at home and sew,

But you’ll see blue water and wheeling gulls

Wherever your feet may go.

You may chat with the neighbors of this and that

And close to your fire keep,

But you’ll hear ship whistle and lighthouse bell

And tides beat through your sleep.

Oh, you won’t know why, and you can’t say how

Such change upon you came,

But – once you have slept on an island

You’ll never be quite the same!

If Once You Have Slept on an Island by Rachel Field / Poems About Travel And How It Changes Us

The Moment by Margaret Atwood

The moment when, after many years

of hard work and a long voyage

you stand in the centre of your room,

house, half-acre, square mile, island, country,

knowing at last how you got there,

and say, I own this,

is the same moment when the trees unloose

their soft arms from around you,

the birds take back their language,

the cliffs fissure and collapse,

the air moves back from you like a wave

and you can’t breathe.

No, they whisper. You own nothing.

You were a visitor, time after time

climbing the hill, planting the flag, proclaiming.

We never belonged to you.

You never found us.

It was always the other way round.

The Moment by Margaret Atwood / Famous Travel Poems

Freedom by Olive Runner

Give me the long, straight road before me,

A clear, cold day with a nipping air,

Tall, bare trees to run on beside me,

A heart that is light and free from care.

Then let me go! – I care not whither

My feet may lead, for my spirit shall be

Free as the brook that flows to the river,

Free as the river that flows to the sea.

Freedom by Olive Runner / Poems About Travel

Poem About Travel by Drewniverses

You are not a tree. You are not bound

to the ground you walk on. You have

wings and dreams and a heart full of

wonder. So pick up your feet and go.

Spread kindness like a wildflower

wherever you go. Fall in love with the

life you live, and always leave people

better than you found them.

Poem About Travel by Drewniverses / Poems About Travel

Traveling by Nayyirah Waheed

be insecure

allow yourself lowness.

know that it is

the way to who you are.

Traveling by Nayyirah Waheed / Poems About Travel and Adventure

P.S. I Love You by H. Jackson Brown

Twenty years from now

You’ll be more disappointed

By the things you didn’t do

Than by the ones you did do.

So throw off the bowlines.

Sail away from the harbor.

Catch the trade winds in your sails.

P.S. I Love You by H. Jackson Brown / Poems About Travel Why You Need to Travel the World

For the Traveler by John O’Donohue

Every time you leave home,

Another road takes you

Into a world you were never in.

New strangers on other paths await.

New places that have never seen you

Will startle a little at your entry.

Old places that know you well

Will pretend nothing

Changed since your last visit.

When you travel, you find yourself

Alone in a different way,

More attentive now

To the self you bring along,

Your more subtle eye watching

You abroad; and how what meets you

Touches that part of the heart

That lies low at home:

How you unexpectedly attune

To the timbre in some voice,

Opening in conversation

You want to take in

To where your longing

Has pressed hard enough

Inward, on some unsaid dark,

To create a crystal of insight

You could not have known

To illuminate

When you travel,

A new silence

Goes with you,

And if you listen,

You will hear

What your heart would

Love to say.

A journey can become a sacred thing:

Make sure, before you go,

To take the time

To bless your going forth,

To free your heart of ballast

So that the compass of your soul

Might direct you toward

The territories of spirit

Where you will discover

More of your hidden life,

And the urgencies

That deserve to claim you.

May you travel in an awakened way,

Gathered wisely into your inner ground;

That you may not waste the invitations

Which wait along the way to transform you.

May you travel safely, arrive refreshed,

And live your time away to its fullest;

Return home more enriched, and free

To balance the gift of days which call you.

For the Traveler by John O’Donohue / Poems About Travel and How It Changes Us

Why Do I Travel? Author Unknown

It is on the road that my inner voice speaks the loudest and my heart beats the strongest.

It is on the road that I take extra pride in my wooly hair, full features and lineage.

It is on the road that I develop extra senses and the hairs on my arms stand up and say “Sana, don’t go there”, and I listen.

It’s when I safety pin my money to my underclothes and count it a million times before I go to sleep,

It is on the road that I am a poet, an ambassador, a dancer, medicine woman, an angel and even a genius.

It’s on the road that I am fearless and unstoppable and if necessary ball up my fist and fight back.

It is on the road that I talk to my deceased parents and they speak back

It’s on the road that I reprimand myself, and set new goals, refuel, stop and begin again.

It is on the road that I experience what freedom truly is.

It is my travel that has transformed me making me a citizen of the world. When my humanness, compassion and affection are raised to a new level and I share unconditionally.

Why Do I Travel? Author Unknown / Poems About Travel

Travel by Robert Louis Stevenson

I should like to rise and go

Where the golden apples grow;—

Where below another sky

Parrot islands anchored lie,

And, watched by cockatoos and goats,

Lonely Crusoes building boats;—

Where in sunshine reaching out

Eastern cities, miles about,

Are with mosque and minaret

Among sandy gardens set,

And the rich goods from near and far

Hang for sale in the bazaar,—

Where the Great Wall round China goes,

And on one side the desert blows,

And with bell and voice and drum

Cities on the other hum;—

Where are forests, hot as fire,

Wide as England, tall as a spire,

Full of apes and cocoa-nuts

And the negro hunters’ huts;—

Where the knotty crocodile

Lies and blinks in the Nile,

And the red flamingo flies

Hunting fish before his eyes;—

Where in jungles, near and far,

Man-devouring tigers are,

Lying close and giving ear

Lest the hunt be drawing near,

Or a comer-by be seen

Swinging in a palanquin;—

Where among the desert sands

Some deserted city stands,

All its children, sweep and prince,

Grown to manhood ages since,

Not a foot in street or house,

Not a stir of child or mouse,

And when kindly falls the night,

In all the town no spark of light.

There I’ll come when I’m a man

With a camel caravan;

Light a fire in the gloom

Of some dusty dining-room;

See the pictures on the walls,

Heroes, fights and festivals;

And in a corner find the toys

Of the old Egyptian boys.

Travel by Robert Louis Stevenson / Poems About Travel

Night Traveler by Deepa Thomas

I am a night traveler

Travel all through the night

And my bed is a sailing boat

I reach for my bed every night

And take a trip places far away

To see new things and people

I travel past the harbors

Full of anchored boats

I travel past the beaches

With swaying coconut trees

I watch the waves

Embracing the shore

I watch the kids playing

And reach out my arms

Then I touch my own bed

Here comes a flash

And my boat is back

And I am back in bed

My boat sails every night

And reach home with morning light

Never did it anchor once

Still traveling every day

Hoping to reach

That unknown destination

Night Travel by Deepa Thomas / Poems About Travel

Did You Find Poems About Travel Useful?

Why not save it to your pinterest board.

Poems About Travel

Now, It Is Your Turn, I Would Like to Hear Back from You!

What is your favorite poem about travel?

Please let me know and I will add it to the list!

alert('URL copied to clipboard.')).catch(err => console.error('Unable to copy to clipboard.', err))">

Share via Email

218 Beautiful LAKE CAPTIONS and QUOTES to Accompany Your Lake Photos

Golden Hour Captions and Quotes for Instagram

181 Golden Hour Captions and Quotes Celebrating the Magical Time

277 Solo Female Travel Quotes and Captions (Embrace Adventure and Independence)

165 Beautiful CHERRY BLOSSOM QUOTES and CAPTIONS for Instagram

299 Gorgeous Tropical Vacation Captions and Quotes (Escape to Paradise)

235 Unforgettable FAMILY TRIP CAPTIONS and QUOTES (Perfect for Vacation Photos)

@intrepid.scout

Leave an answer Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

The company processes your data to facilitate the publication and management of comments. You can exercise your rights of access, rectification, deletion and objection, among others, according to our Privacy policy .

10 Beautiful Travel Poems For The Adventurer In You

Travel poems breathe wanderlust into words. Here are ten beautiful travel poems for the adventurer in you.

Disclosure: Heads up, this post contains affiliate links, which means Passport To Eden may get a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make an online purchase. Don’t feel pressured to buy anything. We still love that you’re here, reading our content (side note: we suggest getting a coffee or tea first because our blog posts tend to be long). You can read our full affiliate disclosure here to find out more.

Table of Contents

A Travel Poem For The Girl With Itchy Feet

against the shore,

restless like

for any adventure,

that blew along her way

– Atticus

A Travel Poem For The One On A Journey. Any Journey.

Afoot and light-hearted I take to the open road,

Healthy, free, the world before me,

The long brown path before me leading me wherever I choose,

Henceforth I ask not good-fortune, I myself am good-fortune,

Henceforth I whimper no more, postpone no more, need nothing,

Done with indoor complaints, libraries, querulous criticisms,

Strong and content I travel the open road.

– Walt Whitman, from Song of the Open Road

A Travel Poem That Sums Up Adventure In Four Gorgeous Lines

My heart is warm with the friends I make,

And better friends I’ll not be knowing,

Yet there isn’t a train I wouldn’t take,

No matter where it’s going.

– Edna St. Vincent Millay, from Travel

A Travel Poem From Margaret Atwood Because She Never Disappoints

No, they whisper. You own nothing.

You were a visitor, time after time

climbing the hill, planting the flag, proclaiming.

We never belong to you.

You never found us.

It was always the other way around.

– Margaret Atwood, from The Moment

This Travel Poem Is Just Everything

You are not a tree. You are not bound

to the ground you walk on. You have

wings and dreams and a heart full of

wonder. So pick up your feet and go.

Spread kindness like a wildflower

wherever you go. Fall in love with the

life you live, and always leave people

better than you found them.

– Drewniverses, from Tumblr

This 19th Century Travel Poem Is Just. So. Good.

Half across the world from me

Lie the lands I’ll never see- I, whose longing lives and dies Where a ship has sailed away; I, that never close my eyes But to look upon Cathay.

Things I may not know nor tell Wait, where older waters swell; Ways that flowered at Sappho’s tread, Winds that sighed in Homer’s strings, Vibrant with the singing dead, Golden with the dust of wings.

Under deeper skies than mine, Quiet valleys dip and shine. Where their tender grasses heal Ancient scars of trench and tomb I shall never walk: nor kneel Where the bones of poets bloom.

If I seek a lovelier part, Where I travel goes my heart; Where I stray my thought must go; With me wanders my desire. Best to sit and watch the snow, Turn the lock, and poke the fire.

– Dorothy Parker, from Hearthside

If Only I Could Swallow This Modern Travel Poem

be insecure

allow yourself lowness.

know that it is

the way to who you are.

– Nayyirah Waheed, from Traveling

Then, There’s This Transcendent Travel Poem

my eyes will remember

how to love the world

under changing skies.

when the light changes,

so does the view.

– Lindsay O’Connell

And This One

Somedays, I grow tired of life,

and long, for the next great adventure.

Finally, If You’re Waiting To Pack Your Bags And Go…

Twenty years from now

You’ll be more disappointed

By the things you didn’t do

Than by the ones you did do.

So throw off the bowlines.

Sail away from the harbor.

Catch the trade winds in your sails.

– H. Jackson Brown, from P.S. I Love You (well, sort of. It’s a quote from his mother).

Did you enjoy these travel poems? Let me know in the comments below which one of these travel poems was your favorite! Mine is definitely #5, but I love them all!

FOR THOSE WHO LOVE POETRY

PENGUIN CLASSICS

Complete Poems

Dorothy Parker’s poem is our favorite on this list. If you loved it as much as we did, here’s a complete collection of her works

APPLEWOOD BOOKS

Song Of The Open Road

a hardcover edition of Walt Whitman’s poem about journeying, adventure, and finding yourself

ATRIA BOOKS

The Dark Between Stars

for those who devoured Milk & Honey and Pillow Thoughts and want to read Atticus’ contribution to the Insta-popular poetry format

Editor-In-Chief

Anshula grew up with a love of stories and places. Thirty-five states and 100 bookstores later, she's made her hobbit home in Middle Tennessee. Her Tookish side still takes over and leaves her chasing window seats, literary destinations, adventure books, sunrise coffee, and indie bookshops. She's appeared as a travel source on HuffPost, Reader's Digest, and MSN.

Inspiring Travel Quotes – Just Grab Your Passport And Go

20 YA Travel Books For The Adventurer In You

Funny Travel Quotes (That Are Laughably Relatable)

36 Eat Pray Love Quotes That Will Speak To Your Heart

7 Reasons Why I Travel

20 Travel Proverbs From Around The World

I love Atticus.

How beautiful, Anshula! These are so inspiring.

Dee ~ Vanilla Papers

I love these, thanks. Time to share to my friends on FB!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of new posts by email.

What are you looking for?

Meet the Team
Work with Us
Czech Republic
Netherlands
Switzerland
Scandinavia
Philippines
South Korea
New Zealand
South Africa
Budget Travel
Work & Travel
The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
Travel Resources
How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Budget Travel » 25 Inspiring Poems about Adventure

25 Inspiring Poems about Adventure

Travel has always had the power to stir the soul and inspire works of great artistry. The feeling of freedom exploring offers us has inspired humans to create moving artworks, from paintings and songs to epic poems.

Great poets like Whitman and Tennyson have penned profound poems about adventure that have stood the test of time.

We’ve gathered this list of some of the best-known adventure poems, and some lesser-known but no less impactful poems to ignite your wanderlust. They capture the feeling of being out in the world immersing in new places.

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

1. The Road Not Taken – Robert Frost

“I shall be telling this with a sigh Somewhere ages and ages hence: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I- I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.”

Robert Frost, regarded by many as one of America’s greatest poets, wrote this adventure poem which has no doubt inspired more travels than we could ever know. It’s a call to courage, to face the unknown, and to break from the crowd and follow your own path wherever it may lead.

2. Song of the Open Road – Walt Whitman

“Afoot and light-hearted I take to the open road, Healthy, free, the world before me, The long brown path before me leading wherever I choose. Henceforth I ask not good-fortune, I myself am good-fortune, Henceforth I whimper no more, postpone no more, need nothing, Done with indoor complaints, libraries, querulous criticisms, Strong and content I travel the open road.”

3. Freedom – Olive Runner

“Give me the long, straight road before me, A clear, cold day with a nipping air, Tall, bare trees to run on beside me, A heart that is light and free from care. Then let me go!-I care not whither My feet may lead, for my spirit shall be Free as the brook that flows to the river, Free as the river that flows to the sea.”

Oliver Runner’s poem about adventure captures so much of what drives every traveler. The sense of untethered wandering, free to go where the road may lead. As long as we’re treading new ground and experiencing new places, we’re at our happiest.

4. For the Traveller – John O’Donohue

“When you travel, you find yourself Alone in a different way, More attentive now To the self you bring along, Your more subtle eye watching You abroad; and how what meets you Touches that part of the heart That lies low at home:

How you unexpectedly attune To the timbre in some voice, Opening in conversation You want to take in To where your longing Has pressed hard enough Inward, on some unsaid dark, To create a crystal of insight You could not have known.”

When it comes to poems about adventure, this one by John O’Donohue does well to explain the changes that occur within us when we travel. We may see new horizons every day, and we may meet new people around each corner, but the thing that changes the most is the heart and mind of the traveler.

5. If Once You’ve Slept on an Island – Rachel Field

“If once you have slept on an island You’ll never be quite the same; You may look as you looked the day before And go by the same old name, You may bustle about in street and shop You may sit at home and sew, But you’ll see blue water and wheeling gulls Wherever your feet may go. You may chat with the neighbors of this and that And close to your fire keep, But you’ll hear ship whistle and lighthouse bell And tides beat through your sleep. Oh! you won’t know why and you can’t say how Such a change upon you came, But once you have slept on an island, You’ll never be quite the same.”

6. Travel – Robert Louis Stevenson

“I should like to rise and go Where the golden apples grow;— Where below another sky Parrot islands anchored lie, And, watched by cockatoos and goats, Lonely Crusoes building boats;— Where in sunshine reaching out Eastern cities, miles about, Are with mosque and minaret Among sandy gardens set, And the rich goods from near and far Hang for sale in the bazaar,— Where the Great Wall round China goes, And on one side the desert blows, And with bell and voice and drum Cities on the other hum;—”

7. Die Slowly – Martha Medeiros

“He who does not travel, who does not read, who can not hear music, who does not find grace in himself, she who does not find grace in herself, dies slowly.

He who slowly destroys his own self-esteem, who does not allow himself to be helped, who spends days on end complaining about his own bad luck, about the rain that never stops, dies slowly.”

The title of this adventure poem may seem dark, and not much about adventure at all, but it’s really about living. Living so fully and so well that death seems to take its time arriving. We know that we all die one day, but we can make so much of our time, that once is enough.

Reducing our days on earth into an endless stream of items on a to-do list, fulfilling responsibilities, and going through the motions is not a way to get the most out of it.

8. Oh the Places You’ll Go – Dr. Seuss

“You’re off to Great Places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, So… get on your way!”

This is the greatest poem about adventure that inspires both adults and children. At its heart, this poem is a call to adventure, encouraging readers to head off into the world with bravery, courage, and curiosity for the things that await to be seen and discovered.

9. Questions of Travel – Elizabeth Bishop

“Think of the long trip home. Should we have stayed at home and thought of here? Where should we be today?”

“But surely it would have been a pity not to have seen the trees along this road, really exaggerated in their beauty, not to have seen them gesturing like noble pantomimists, robed in pink.”

10. Over the Hills and Far Away – William Ernest Henley

“Where forlorn sunsets flare and fade On desolate sea and lonely sand, Out of the silence and the shade What is the voice of strange command Calling you still, as friend calls friend With love that cannot brook delay, To rise and follow the ways that wend Over the hills and far away? “

11. O to Sail – Walt Whitman

“O to sail in a ship, To leave this steady unendurable land, To leave this tiresome sameness of streets, the sidewalks and the houses, To leave you, O you solid motionless land, and entering the ship, To sail and sail and sail!”

12. Travel – Edna St Vincent Millay

“The railroad track is miles away, And the day is loud with voices speaking, Yet there isn’t a train goes by all day But I hear its whistle shrieking.

All night there isn’t a train goes by, Though the night is still for sleep and dreaming, But I see its cinders red on the sky, And hear its engine steaming.

My heart is warm with the friends I make, And better friends I’ll not be knowing; Yet there isn’t a train I wouldn’t take, No matter where it’s going.”

To the person with an adventurous heart, travel will call in many ways. The restlessness may wax and wane but it never leaves us entirely. The deep desire to explore will always be back to call us, to motion us onwards on our next journey. We can try to distract ourselves and live on regardless but the call will come again. It always does.

13. The Land of Beyond – Robert W Service

“Have ever you heard of the Land of Beyond, That dreams at the gates of the day? Alluring it lies at the skirts of the skies, And ever so far away; Alluring it calls: O ye the yoke galls, And ye of the trails overfond, With saddle and pack, by paddle and track, Let’s go to the Land of Beyond!”

14. Prayer for Travellers – Anon

“May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; The rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand.”

15. Ulysses – Alfred Tennyson

“For always roaming with a hungry heart Much have I seen and known; cities of men And manners, climates, councils, governments, Myself not least, but honour’d of them all; And drunk delight of battle with my peers, Far on the ringing plains of windy Troy. I am a part of all that I have met; Yet all experience is an arch wherethro’ Gleams that untravell’d world whose margin fades For ever and forever when I move.”

This epic adventure poem written by Tennyson tells of a life lived in pursuit of adventure. It’s told from the point of view of Ulysses, who is now old and unfulfilled by a sedentary life. Though his body has aged he still longs for adventure. The main theme is that as long as there are horizons to chase and strength in our bodies, we can always choose to set out and explore. We should use every day we’re given to its fullest, taking every morsel of adventure we can.

16. I Want a Life Measured – Tyler Knott Gregson

“I want a life measured in first steps on foreign soils and deep breaths in brand new seas I want a life measured in Welcome Signs, each stamped with a different name, borders marked with metal and paint. Show me the streets that don’t know the music of my meandering feet, and I will play their song upon them. Perfume me please in the smells of far away, I will never wash my hair if it promises to stay. I want a life measured in the places I haven’t gone, short sleeps on long flights, strange voices teaching me new words to describe the dawn.”

Tyler Knott Gregson’s poem enlists all the senses in describing the gifts that travel brings. We should measure our lives by the places we’ve been, and the experiences we’ve had in faraway places. The wanderer in us all can relate to this feeling of needing to fill our days with newness and unexplored places.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

17. Why Do I Travel – Unknown

“It is on the road that my inner voice speaks the loudest and my heart beats the strongest. It is on the road that I take extra pride in my wooly hair, full features and lineage. It is on the road that I develop extra senses and the hairs on my arms stand up and say “Sana, don’t go there”, and I listen. It’s when I safety pin my money to my underclothes and count it a million times before I go to sleep, It is on the road that I am a poet, an ambassador, a dancer, medicine woman, an angel and even a genius. It’s on the road that I am fearless and unstoppable and if necessary ball up my fist and fight back. It is on the road that I talk to my deceased parents and they speak back. It’s on the road that I reprimand myself, and set new goals, refuel, stop and begin again. It is on the road that I experience what freedom truly is. It is my travel that has transformed me making me a citizen of the world. When my humanness, compassion and affection are raised to a new level and I share unconditionally.”

While the author of this piece is unknown, it’s clear that this poem about adventure comes from the heart of an explorer. When we travel we change in ways we could never anticipate. We grow and we learn and we change, and we’re never the same again. With each adventure we take, we gain something and are forever transformed.

18. A Call to Adventure – John Mark Green

“Set fire to all your maps, Forget how it’s always been. We’re explorers of the heart, Learning to dream again. The adventure of a lifetime, With love along as our guide. Exotic places beyond imagination – Ones we’ve longed for deep inside.”

19. Returning – Erin Hanson

“Perhaps we only leave So we can once again arrive, To get a bird’s eye view Of what it means to be alive. For there is beauty in returning, Oh how wonderful, how strange, To see that everything’s different But know it is only you who changed.”

By leaving, we gain a new perspective on the world. This change within us makes it impossible to go back to who we were before we left, and when we return we can’t see things the same way anymore. Coming back is not the same as having never left.

20. Wanderlust – Richard Avedon

“You must not think because my glance is quick To shift from this to that, from here to there, Because I am most usually where The way is strangest and the wonders thick, Because when wind is wildest and the bay Swoops madly upward and the gulls are few And I am doing as I want to do, Leaving the town to go my aimless way; You must not think because I am the kind Who always shunned security and such As bother the responsible of mind That I shall never total up to much; I know my drifting will not prove a loss, For mine is a rolling stone that has gathered moss.”

21. The Enchanted Traveler – Bliss Carmen

“We travelled empty-handed With hearts all fear above, For we ate the bread of friendship, We drank the wine of love. Through many a wondrous autumn, Through many a magic spring, We hailed the scarlet banners, We heard the blue-bird sing. We looked on life and nature With the eager eyes of youth, And all we asked or cared for Was beauty, joy, and truth. We found no other wisdom, We learned no other way, Than the gladness of the morning, The glory of the day. So all our earthly treasure Shall go with us, my dears, Aboard the Shadow Liner, Across the sea of years.”

This is a simple and beautiful adventure poem about the joys of being free to wander. Our lives should be a series of adventures, through the seasons of our lives, and our treasure is the places we’ve been to and the people we’ve shared the journey with.

22. The Farewell – Khalil Gibran

“We wanderers, ever seeking the lonelier way, begin no day where we have ended another day; and no sunrise finds us where sunset left us. Even while the earth sleeps we travel. We are the seeds of the tenacious plant, and it is in our ripeness and our fullness of heart that we are given to the wind and are scattered.”

23. What if this Road – Sheenagh Pugh

“What if this road, that has held no surprises these many years, decided not to go home after all; what if it could turn left or right with no more ado than a kite-tail? What if its tarry skin were like a long, supple bolt of cloth, that is shaken and rolled out, and takes a new shape from the contours beneath? And if it chose to lay itself down in a new way, around a blind corner, across hills you must climb without knowing what’s on the other side, who would not hanker to be going, at all risks? Who wants to know a story’s end, or where a road will go?”

24. The Return – Geneen Marie Haugen

“Some day, if you are lucky, you’ll return from a thunderous journey trailing snake scales, wing fragments and the musk of Earth and moon. Eyes will examine you for signs of damage, or change and you, too, will wonder if your skin shows traces of fur, or leaves, if thrushes have built a nest of your hair, if Andromeda burns from your eyes.”

Geneen Marie Haugen talks about the lasting effect that travel has on us. When we return home to those who never left, we seem worlds apart. Do they envy us? Do they fear us for what we may know that they do not? We return changed and we can only hope that change inspires others to chase their adventures too.

25. On the World – Francis Quarles

“The world’s an Inn; and I her guest. I eat; I drink; I take my rest. My hostess, nature, does deny me Nothing, wherewith she can supply me; Where, having stayed a while, I pay Her lavish bills, and go my way. “

Final thoughts

There are so many more excellent poems about adventure out there to get your wanderlust juices flowing. These are just the tip of the iceberg for incredible adventure inspiration.

We hope these verses have ignited, or at least fanned the flames of exploration within you. Who knows, you might set off on an epic journey and be inspired to create your very own poem.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Rose Wilson

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Exploring Safety Through Short Poems

The Power of Poetry

1. "guardian angels", 2. "safe haven", 3. "the shield", 4. "cautionary steps", 5. "safe words", finding safety in poetry.

Poetry has the unique ability to convey powerful emotions and important messages in just a few lines. It can capture the essence of an idea and evoke profound thoughts within the reader. Safety, a fundamental concern for all, is a topic that can be effectively explored through the brevity and impact of short poems. In this article, we will delve into the world of safety through a collection of poignant poems.

Guardian angels Whispering softly In unseen winds Keeping us safe

This short and sweet poem reminds us that safety often comes in the form of those watching over us. It highlights the presence of protective forces that may not always be visible but are constantly working to keep us out of harm's way.

A sheltering tree Strong branches embrace Providing solace In nature's safe haven

This poem draws attention to the concept of finding safety in nature. It emphasizes the idea that sometimes, amidst the chaos of life, we can seek refuge in the tranquil embrace of the natural world. It reminds us to find solace in the beauty and peace that nature provides.

Armor of love Shielding from pain Strength in unity Together, we remain

This poem celebrates the power of love and unity in keeping us safe. It highlights the idea that when we come together as a community, supporting and protecting one another, we create a shield against the hardships and dangers of the world.

Careful footsteps tread Avoiding hidden snares Vigilant eyes guide Safe journey ensnares

This poem underscores the importance of caution and mindfulness in ensuring safety. It reminds us to tread carefully, keeping our eyes open to potential dangers and avoiding unnecessary risks. By being vigilant and aware, we can navigate our journey through life safely.

Words of kindness Healing hearts with care A fortress of peace Safe words, a refuge we share

This poem explores the safety found in the power of words. It emphasizes the ability of kind and comforting words to create a safe haven for those in need. It reminds us of the importance of using our words to bring solace and healing to others.

Through these short poems, we have discovered various aspects of safety and the different forms it can take. Whether it be the protective presence of guardian angels, the sanctuary provided by nature, the strength of unity, the cautious steps we take, or the comforting words we share, safety is a multifaceted concept that can be beautifully expressed through poetry.

So, next time you find yourself contemplating the importance of safety, consider turning to poetry to delve deeper into its nuances. Let these short poems serve as a reminder of the many ways we can find safety in the world around us and within ourselves.

Famous Poems Addressing Environmental Issues
Margaret Atwood: Exploring Love Through Poetry

Entradas Relacionadas

Poems about Place and Belonging: A Journey through Words

Famous Poems about Insecurity: Exploring the Depths of Self-Doubt

Poems Illuminate the Struggles of LGBTQ+ Discrimination

Satires and Poems About the British: A Tongue-in-Cheek Exploration

Poems about Heroes and Villains: Exploring the Dualities of Good and Evil

The Power of Teamwork: Short Poems that Celebrate Collaboration

Wander-Lush

65 Beautiful Quotes to Wish Someone a Safe Journey

Know someone who is about to set off on holiday or go abroad? Here are 65 creative and thoughtful ways to say ‘Have a safe trip’. Copy and paste these safe journey wishes to show them that you care.

Saying goodbye to someone who’s about to depart on a journey can be difficult. Even as a writer, I often struggle to find the right words to say.

These days, I’m usually on the receiving end of goodbyes – but I’ve had to say my fair share of farewells, too.

While ‘Have a safe journey’ will sometimes suffice, quoting a simple message, a beautiful saying or even a traditional blessing is an easy way to make a farewell more meaningful and memorable.

I’ve searched books, song lyrics and inspirational sites to come up with this list of 65 safe journey wishes . You can say these out loud, or you can copy and paste your favourite into an email, use it in a caption on social media, or better still, jot it down on a hand-written note!

The best quotes about travelling with friends
The best quotes about travelling alone
The best quotes for travelling with family
Inspiring quotes about adventure & hiking
Beautiful sunset captions for social media

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Tips for wishing someone a safe journey

Goodbyes are often emotional and can be overwhelming, especially when they take place at the airport or at the station. These tips can make saying farewell that much easier.

Don’t leave your goodbye until the last minute. If you want to make it meaningful, make sure you set aside enough time to say everything you want to say.
Focus on the next time you’ll meet. Whether it’s catching up for a meal or picking them up from the airport, make a plan and remind them (and yourself) that it’s only a matter of time before you see each other again.
Make a time to speak. If you know you’ll hear their voice when the flight lands or the train pulls in, you’ll feel much better about sending them off.
Remember, the person travelling is excited for the journey ahead – but they’re probably just as emotional as you!
Reassure them that you’ll be thinking of them. These safe journey wishes are perfect for just that.
It’s not only about what you say, it’s also what you do. Depending on your relationship, a warm hug or a hand on the shoulder can mean a lot.

Short and sweet safe journey wishes

These safe journey messages are thoughtful but to the point. They’re especially good for saying a quick goodbye on social media or by text message.

Best wishes for a safe, happy and fulfilling journey.
May the road be kind to you.
Go safe, move safe, leave safe, home safe.

This goodbye message comes from a Middle English phrase meaning ‘May you prosper’.

When NASA astronaut John Glenn made the first manned orbital flight in 1962, mission control used the word ‘Godspeed’ to wish him a safe journey.

Catch you on the flip side!

We often use this friendly way of saying goodbye in Australia. It comes from late-night radio DJs, who would use the phrase before they put on a vinyl record.

Listeners knew they wouldn’t hear from the DJ again until the record had played through and they had ‘flipped’ the vinyl to the B side.

Stay out of trouble!

A cheeky way of saying ‘Have a safe journey’, appropriate for someone you know well!

Smooth sailing!

First coined in the 14th Century, this phrase prophesied calm waters free from rough waves for someone who was about to set sail on the high seas.

It doesn’t just apply to water travel – nowadays, it can be used as a generic saying to wish someone a breezy journey.

“May the air be clear, your flight smooth, the plane ride safe, and the sky blue!” – Unknown
“May angels fly with you wherever you roam and guide you back safely to family and home.” – Traditional Irish blessing
“The more you weigh, the harder you are to kidnap. Stay safe. Eat cake!” – Unknown

“The world is waiting for you. Good Luck. Travel Safe. Go!” – Phil Keoghan (The Amazing Race)
“I don’t want you coming back empty-handed – I want you coming back with a head full of tall tales, absurdities, and little moments of beauty. Have a safe trip!” – Unknown

How to wish someone safe travels in a different language

Are you saying goodbye to someone who is travelling overseas? Why not wish them a safe journey in the local language of their destination.

Bon voyage! – French
Buon viaggio! – Italian
Gluckliche reise! – German
Viaje seguro! – Spanish
Boa viagem! – Portuguese

65 creative and thoughtful ways to say 'have a safe journey' to a traveller. Copy and paste these safe journey wishes and show them that you care.

Tsetchem leshalom (נסיעה בטוחה) – Hebrew
Chuyến đi an toàn – Vietnamese
Anzen’na tabi (安全な旅) – Japanese
Yīlù píng’ān (一路平安) – Chinese
Surakshit yaatra (सुरक्षित यात्रा) – Hindi
Mae alsalama (مع السلامة) – Arabic
Safari salama – Swahili

Inspiring safe journey wishes

Are you wishing a safe journey to some who is feeling nervous or anxious? Or maybe you just want to offer some parting words of wisdom that will inspire them to make the most of their trip. Travelling is a life-changing experience , and these quotes perfectly capture that sentiment.

These inspirational journey quotes and travel affirmations are suitable for family, friends or your significant other.

“It’s time to say goodbye, but I think goodbyes are sad and I’d much rather say hello. Hello to a new adventure.” – Ernie Harwell
“Not I, nor anyone else can travel that road for you. You must travel it by yourself. It is not far. It is within reach. Perhaps you have been on it since you were born, and did not know. Perhaps it is everywhere – on water and land.” – Walt Whitman, Leaves of Grass
“If you’re brave enough to say goodbye, life will reward you with a new hello.” – Paulo Coelho

“As with most phobias, the fear of flying does make some sense, but if ever there was a fear worth quashing then this is it. After all, life is short, and there’s a great big world to explore out there.” – Beth Ditto
“The moment you doubt whether you can fly, you cease forever to be able to do it. The reason birds can fly and we can’t is simply that they have perfect faith, for to have faith is to have wings.” – J. M. Barrie (Peter Pan)
“Embrace what you don’t understand, what you can’t see just yet, experience something new.” – Unknown
“Life is a journey, not a destination.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
“There was nowhere to go but everywhere, so just keep on rolling under the stars.” – Jack Kerouac, On the Road

“What is that feeling when you’re driving away from people and they recede on the plain till you see their specks dispersing? It’s the too-huge world vaulting us, and it’s good-bye. But we lean forward to the next crazy venture beneath the skies.” – Jack Kerouac, On the Road
“Today is the first step on a brand new journey. All you have to do is keep moving.” – Unknown
“Most people spend their lives dreaming about somewhere else, go there.” – Unknown
“Ships may be safest docked in the harbour, but that is not what they were designed to do.” – Unknown
“Wherever you go, go with all your heart.” – Confucius
“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” – Helen Keller

A mountaintop monastery with a beautiful quote overlaid on the graphic.

“Tourists don’t know where they’ve been, travellers don’t know where they’re going.” – Paul Theroux
“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu
“The world is open to an endless stream of potential experiences; it’s up to you to navigate that raging torrent of possibilities and find your own destination.” – Unknown
“Remember that true contentment comes from stepping out into the unknown and beating back the ghosts of insecurity. Enjoy this trip and all that it has to offer and let your mind be open to new experiences.” – Unknown
“Get ready for the unexpected, for the trivial and mundane to be turned into the profound and insightful.” – Unknown
“Travel makes one modest, you see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” – Gustave Flaubert
“Travel is about the gorgeous feeling of teetering in the unknown.” – Anthony Bourdain

“Travel far enough, you meet yourself.” – David Mitchell
“Though we travel the world over to find the beautiful, we must carry it with us or we find it not.” – Henry David Thoreau

Safe journey wishes for your significant other

Saying farewell to the person you love – be they a girlfriend or boyfriend, husband or wife – is often the hardest goodbye of all.

These romantic quotes can help you convey your feelings while wishing your loved one a safe journey.

“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” – A.A. Milne (Winnie-the-Pooh)
“Distance means so little when someone means so much.” – Unknown
“Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with heart and soul there is no such thing as separation.” – Rumi

“The reason it hurts so much to separate is because our souls are connected.” – Nicholas Sparks (The Notebook)
“You’re my favourite hello, but my hardest goodbye.” – Unknown

And if it’s you who’s saying goodbye…

“Close your eyes and I’ll kiss you Tomorrow I’ll miss you Remember I’ll always be true And then while I’m away I’ll write home every day And I’ll send all my lovin’ to you” – The Beatles, All My Loving
“So kiss me and smile for me Tell me that you’ll wait for me Hold me like you’ll never let me go ‘Cause I’m leavin’ on a jet plane Don’t know when I’ll be back again Oh babe, I hate to go” – John Denver, Leaving on a Jet Plane

Thoughtful safe journey wishes for friends & family

These friendly travel quotes are perfect if you’re parting ways with a friend or family member.

“Though miles may lie between us, we are never far apart, for friendship doesn’t count miles, it’s measured by the heart.” – Unknown
“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.” – Mahatma Gandhi

“Nothing makes the earth seem so spacious as to have friends at a distance; they make the latitudes and longitudes.” – Henry David Thoreau
“Goodbyes are not forever, are not the end; it simply means I’ll miss you until we meet again.” – Unknown
“The pain of parting is nothing to the joy of meeting again.” – Charles Dickens

Traditional safe journey messages from around the world

Every culture and religion has its own beautiful and poetic ways of saying farewell. Here are just a few of my favourites.

“May the road rise to meet you, May the wind be always at your back, May the sun shine warm upon your face, The rains fall soft upon your fields and, Until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand, May Angels fly with you wherever you roam and guide you back safely to family and home.” – Traditional Irish blessing
“May good luck be your friend in whatever you do and may trouble be always a stranger to you.” – Traditional Irish farewell

“Goodbye, goodbye, loved one, goodbye. We’ll meet again, God willing.” – Kwa Heri by Libana, a Swahili goodbye song
“May you ride comfortably and tirelessly on the road you travel! May your golden way be filled with prosperity! Please go easy and well on your way! Please go well!” – Traditional Mongolian farewell

Beautiful safe travel blessings & prayers

For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways. In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone. – Psalm 91:11-12
“Arise with you in the morning, travel with you through each day, Welcome you on your arrival. God, be with you all the way.” – Christian prayer
“Be mindful, O Lord, of those who travel by land, by sea, and by air… upon them all send forth Thy mercies, for Thou art the Giver of all good things.” – Orthodox Christian prayer

And there you have it – 65 thoughtful and heartfelt ways to say farewell to someone who’s travelling. What are your favourite goodbye quotes?

World’s best and golden words I’ve read here . I wanted to wish my crush and this site helped me a lot . Thank you very much.

Thank you for sharing 🙂

Just a little note on the Portuguese wishes, “Viagem segura” is grammatically correct but no one really says it that way, we say “Boa viagem”

Obrigado, Rita! I’ve just updated it 🙂

Amazing, these are cute wishes and I think best way to say good-bye to anyone in a beautiful way. Keep sharing good stuff!

Great page! Very inspiring. Very meaningful. Very informative.

Please note typo: Buon viaggion! – Italian should be Buon viaggio! (There is no letter n.)

Keep up the good work,

Whoops, fixed! Thanks for pointing out the typo.

Kindest, Emily

Your words are amazing!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Subscribe to future posts

Poetry About Travel: 21 Most Inspiring Travel Poems

Are you looking for beautiful poetry about travel? Then you have come to the right place! This post features some of the most inspiring travel poems out there.

Travel experiences are often shared in blog posts, videos, books, songs or quotes , but poetry about travel is a bit harder to find. Poetry is a beautiful way to capture how travel makes us feel though, and there are some amazing poems about travel and adventure out there!

I collected 21 of the most beautiful travelling poems in this post. Let me know in the comments if you think there’s a beautiful poem that’s missing from this list, as I’m updating it frequently!

Poetry About Travel: The Most Beautiful Travel Poems

1. The Farewell by Kahlil Gibran

Even though the poetry about travel in this list is in no particular order, the first poem I had to think of was The Farewell by Kahlil Gibran (1883-1931). This beautiful poem can be found in Gibran’s book The Prophet , which is one of the most translated books in history.

I only included my favourite part in this post, as the poem is quite long, but you can read the full version on the link below.

We wanderers, ever seeking the lonelier way, begin no day where we have ended another day; and no sunrise finds us where sunset left us. Even while the earth sleeps we travel. We are the seeds of the tenacious plant, and it is in our ripeness and our fullness of heart that we are given to the wind and are scattered.

Read the full version of Farewell here

2. Freedom by Olive Runner

This short but powerful travel poem by Olive Runner embraces the feeling of freedom that can be found in travelling. It’s one of the most inspiring poems about exploring the world.

Give me the long, straight road before me, A clear, cold day with a nipping air, Tall, bare trees to run on beside me, A heart that is light and free from care. Then let me go! – I care not whither My feet may lead, for my spirit shall be Free as the brook that flows to the river, Free as the river that flows to the sea.

3. Song of the Open Road by Walt Whitman

The main themes in Whitman’s (1819-1892) Song of the Open Road are freedom, joy and independence. This piece of travel poetry inspires us to be free from expectations, follow our own path and enjoy life – it holds a very beautiful message if you’re asking me!

Afoot and light-hearted I take to the open road, Healthy, free, the world before me,

The long brown path before me leading wherever I choose.

Henceforth I ask not good-fortune, I myself am good-fortune, Henceforth I whimper no more, postpone no more, need nothing, Done with indoor complaints, libraries, querulous criticisms, Strong and content I travel the open road.

The earth, that is sufficient, I do not want the constellations any nearer, I know they are very well where they are, I know they suffice for those who belong to them.

4. A Song of Joys by Walt Whitman

You can find the last part of A Song of Joys by Walt Whitman (1819-1892) below. In this poem, Whitman describes different types of people and what brings joy to them. The last part speaks about the joy of travelling and exploring.

You can find the entire poem on the link below if you want to read the entire piece.

O to sail in a ship, To leave this steady unendurable land, To leave the tiresome sameness of the streets, the sidewalks and the houses, To leave you, O you solid motionless land, and entering a ship, To sail and sail and sail! O to have my life henceforth a poem of new joys! To dance, clap hands, exult, shout, skip, leap, roll on, float on, To be a sailor of the world, bound for all ports, A ship itself, (see indeed these sails I spread to the sun and air,) A swift and swelling ship, full of rich words—full of joys.

Read the full version here

5. Travelling Again by Du Fu

Often called “the Poet-Historian”, Du Fu (712-770 AD) is considered one of the greatest Chinese poets. His poem Traveling Again was written in 761 AD, which makes it the oldest of the travelling poems on this list. Fu wrote it during his second visit to a temple in a turbulent time for his country.

Temple remember once travel place Bridge remember again cross time River mountain like waiting Flower willow become selfless Country vivid mist shine thin Sand soft sun colour late Traveller sorrow all become decrease Stay here again what this

I remember the temple, this route I’ve travelled before, I recall the bridge as I cross it again. It seems the hills and rivers have been waiting, The flowers and willows all are selfless now. The field is sleek and vivid, thin mist shines, On soft sand, the sunlight’s colour shows it’s late. All the traveller’s sorrow fades away, What better place to rest than this?

6. Hearthside by Dorothy Parker

In Hearthside by Dorothy Parker (1893-1967), someone is sitting by a fire and thinking about all the places they will never see. It’s a touching piece of travel poetry that makes you dream about visiting places you haven’t been to (yet).

Half across the world from me Lie the lands I’ll never see- I, whose longing lives and dies Where a ship has sailed away; I, that never close my eyes But to look upon Cathay.

Under deeper skies than mine, Quiet valleys dip and shine. Where their tender grasses heal Ancient scars of trench and tomb I shall never walk: nor kneel Where the bones of poets bloom.

If I seek a lovelier part, Where I travel goes my heart; Where I stray my thought must go; With me wanders my desire. Best to sit and watch the snow, Turn the lock, and poke the fire.

7. The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost

A list full of poetry about travel wouldn’t be complete without The Road Not Taken . This deep poem by Robert Frost (1874-1963) talks about how the choices we make, no matter how small they may seem, can impact and shape our lives.

This is one of the most famous poems in the world, where the speaker chooses to take the “road less travelled by”. He/she doesn’t choose the life most people choose and thanks to this, the speaker of this poem is often celebrated for their individualism.

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, And sorry I could not travel both And be one traveler, long I stood And looked down one as far as I could To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, as just as fair, And having perhaps the better claim, Because it was grassy and wanted wear; Though as for that the passing there Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay In leaves no step had trodden black. Oh, I kept the first for another day! Yet knowing how way leads on to way, I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh Somewhere ages and ages hence: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.

8. Eldorado by Edgar Allan Poe

Edgar Allan Poe (1809-1849) was my favourite poet as a teenager, and he’s still one of my favourite poets today. It’s believed that Eldorado is one of his last poems, as he wrote it six months before his death.

Eldorado tells the story of a knight who travels in search of a city of gold. According to scholars, parallels can be seen between the knight’s quest in this poem and Poe’s quest to find happiness in his life.

Gaily bedight, A gallant knight, In sunshine and in shadow, Had journeyed long, Singing a song, In search of Eldorado. But he grew old – This knight so bold – And o’er his heart a shadow Fell, as he found No spot of ground That looked like Eldorado. And, as his strength Failed him at length, He met a pilgrim shadow – ‘Shadow,’ said he, ‘Where can it be – This land of Eldorado?’ ‘Over the Mountains Of the Moon, Down the Valley of the Shadow, Ride, boldly ride,’ The shade replied, ‘If you seek for Eldorado!’

9. Rootless by Jenny Xie

In Rootless , Jenny Xie describes what she sees on a sleeper train between Hanoi and Sapa in Vietnam. The landscapes around the speaker constantly change while he/she is the only constant.

Between Hanoi and Sapa there are clean slabs of rice fields and no two brick houses in a row.

I mean, no three— See, counting’s hard in half-sleep, and the rain pulls a sheet

over the sugar palms and their untroubled leaves. Hours ago, I crossed a motorbike with a hog strapped to its seat,

the size of a date pit from a distance. Can this solitude be rootless, unhooked from the ground?

No matter. The mind resides both inside and out. It can think itself and think itself into existence.

I sponge off the eyes, no worse for wear. My frugal mouth spends the only foreign words it owns.

At present, on this sleeper train, there’s nowhere to arrive. Me? I’m just here in my traveller’s clothes, trying on each passing town for size.

10. Travel by Robert Louis Stevenson

This travel poem by Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1894) talks about the dreams and ambitions of a young boy who wants to travel around the world when he grows up. It’s part of Stevenson’s collection A Child’s Garden of Verses .

I should like to rise and go Where the golden apples grow;— Where below another sky Parrot islands anchored lie, And, watched by cockatoos and goats, Lonely Crusoes building boats;— Where in sunshine reaching out Eastern cities, miles about, Are with mosque and minaret Among sandy gardens set, And the rich goods from near and far Hang for sale in the bazaar,— Where the Great Wall round China goes, And on one side the desert blows, And with bell and voice and drum Cities on the other hum;— Where are forests, hot as fire, Wide as England, tall as a spire, Full of apes and cocoa-nuts And the negro hunters’ huts;— Where the knotty crocodile Lies and blinks in the Nile, And the red flamingo flies Hunting fish before his eyes;— Where in jungles, near and far, Man-devouring tigers are, Lying close and giving ear Lest the hunt be drawing near, Or a comer-by be seen Swinging in a palanquin;— Where among the desert sands Some deserted city stands, All its children, sweep and prince, Grown to manhood ages since, Not a foot in street or house, Not a stir of child or mouse, And when kindly falls the night, In all the town no spark of light. There I’ll come when I’m a man With a camel caravan; Light a fire in the gloom Of some dusty dining-room; See the pictures on the walls, Heroes, fights and festivals; And in a corner find the toys Of the old Egyptian boys.

Drinking a cocktail at Lake Atitlan in Guatemala

11. Dislocation by Simon Constam

Simon Constam wrote this beautiful travel poem during his round-the-world trip when he was 19. It’s about the difference between travelling long term and going on a holiday, which are two different things.

Long-term travel comes with its difficulties and challenges, and it’s different from vacationing.

I envy those who envy me for traveling. Sometimes I sit on a foreign street in a busy cafe, imagining you wishing you were here, feeling for the first time the thrilling flush of wanting to be elsewhere, the frisson of happiness that wishes bring. And so I sit quietly knowing that now it’s time to figure out just what it is I meant to do here.

Valbona Pass hiking in the Accursed Mountains of Albania

12. Questions of travel by Elizabeth Bishop

In the poem Questions of Travel , Elizabeth Bishop (1911-1979) touches on subjects like travel, home, conflict and regret. This piece of travel poetry is one that depicts the pros and cons of travelling, and why we do it.

There are too many waterfalls here; the crowded streams hurry too rapidly down to the sea, and the pressure of so many clouds on the mountaintops makes them spill over the sides in soft slow-motion, turning to waterfalls under our very eyes. –For if those streaks, those mile-long, shiny, tearstains, aren’t waterfalls yet, in a quick age or so, as ages go here, they probably will be. But if the streams and clouds keep travelling, travelling, the mountains look like the hulls of capsized ships, slime-hung and barnacled.

Think of the long trip home. Should we have stayed at home and thought of here? Where should we be today? Is it right to be watching strangers in a play in this strangest of theatres? What childishness is it that while there’s a breath of life in our bodies, we are determined to rush to see the sun the other way around? The tiniest green hummingbird in the world? To stare at some inexplicable old stonework, inexplicable and impenetrable, at any view, instantly seen and always, always delightful? Oh, must we dream our dreams and have them, too? And have we room for one more folded sunset, still quite warm?

But surely it would have been a pity not to have seen the trees along this road, really exaggerated in their beauty, not to have seen them gesturing like noble pantomimists, robed in pink. –Not to have had to stop for gas and heard the sad, two-noted, wooden tune of disparate wooden clogs carelessly clacking over a grease-stained filling-station floor. (In another country the clogs would all be tested. Each pair there would have identical pitch.) –A pity not to have heard the other, less primitive music of the fat brown bird who sings above the broken gasoline pump in a bamboo church of Jesuit baroque: three towers, five silver crosses. –Yes, a pity not to have pondered, blurr’dly and inconclusively, on what connection can exist for centuries between the crudest wooden footwear and, careful and finicky, the whittled fantasies of wooden footwear and, careful and finicky, the whittled fantasies of wooden cages. –Never to have studied history in the weak calligraphy of songbirds’ cages. –And never to have had to listen to rain so much like politicians’ speeches: two hours of unrelenting oratory and then a sudden golden silence in which the traveller takes a notebook, writes:

“Is it lack of imagination that makes us come to imagined places, not just stay at home? Or could Pascal have been not entirely right about just sitting quietly in one’s room?

Continent, city, country, society: the choice is never wide and never free. And here, or there . . . No. Should we have stayed at home, wherever that may be?”

Boddhanath Stupa one of the most famous landmarks in Asia

13. For the Traveler by John O’Donohue

In For the Traveler , John O’Donohue (1956-2008) describes how travelling can change us, and how enriching it is. This poem is about exploring, going on a journey and coming back as a different person – something I can relate to!

Every time you leave home, Another road takes you Into a world you were never in.

New strangers on other paths await. New places that have never seen you Will startle a little at your entry. Old places that know you well Will pretend nothing Changed since your last visit.

When you travel, you find yourself Alone in a different way, More attentive now To the self you bring along, Your more subtle eye watching You abroad; and how what meets you Touches that part of the heart That lies low at home:

When you travel, A new silence Goes with you, And if you listen, You will hear What your heart would Love to say.

A journey can become a sacred thing: Make sure, before you go, To take the time To bless your going forth, To free your heart of ballast So that the compass of your soul Might direct you toward The territories of spirit Where you will discover More of your hidden life, And the urgencies That deserve to claim you.

May you travel in an awakened way, Gathered wisely into your inner ground; That you may not waste the invitations Which wait along the way to transform you.

May you travel safely, arrive refreshed, And live your time away to its fullest; Return home more enriched, and free To balance the gift of days which call you.

14. The Return by Geneen Marie Haugen

Similarly to For the Traveler (#13 on this list), The Return speaks about coming back from a journey as a different person. The difference, however, is that this poem focuses on other people’s points of view, including people’s prejudice and expectations.

Some day, if you are lucky, you’ll return from a thunderous journey trailing snake scales, wing fragments and the musk of Earth and moon .

Eyes will examine you for signs of damage, or change and you, too, will wonder if your skin shows traces

of fur, or leaves, if thrushes have built a nest of your hair, if Andromeda burns from your eyes.

Do not be surprised by prickly questions from those who barely inhabit their own fleeting lives, who barely taste their own possibility, who barely dream.

If your hands are empty, treasureless, if your toes have not grown claws, if your obedient voice has not become a wild cry, a howl,

you will reassure them. We warned you, they might declare, there is nothing else, no point, no meaning, no mystery at all, just this frantic waiting to die.

And yet, they tremble, mute, afraid you’ve returned without sweet elixir for unspeakable thirst, without a fluent dance or holy language to teach them, without a compass bearing to a forgotten border where no one crosses without weeping for the terrible beauty of galaxies

and granite and bone. They tremble, hoping your lips hold a secret, that the song your body now sings will redeem them, yet they fear

your secret is dangerous, shattering, and once it flies from your astonished mouth, they — like you — must disintegrate before unfolding tremulous wings.

Landscapes from the train with a Buddhist monk

15. Travel by Edna St. Vincent Millay

In this beautiful piece of travel poetry by Edna St. Vincent Millay (1892 – 1950), the narrator longs to escape from their everyday life. They hear how the train goes by in the distance and dream about how it could take them somewhere new.

The railroad track is miles away, And the day is loud with voices speaking, Yet there isn’t a train goes by all day But I hear its whistle shrieking.

All night there isn’t a train goes by, Though the night is still for sleep and dreaming, But I see its cinders red on the sky, And hear its engine steaming.

My heart is warm with the friends I make, And better friends I’ll not be knowing, Yet there isn’t a train I wouldn’t take, No matter where it’s going.

16. Traveling by Nayyirah Waheed

Nayyirah Waheed has been described as “the most famous poet on Instagram”, as her poems are frequently shared on this platform.

Apart from her poems, not much is known about Waheed. She doesn’t reveal many details about her life and describes herself as a “quiet poet” – which is quite fascinating! Waheed’s poem Traveling is a beautiful example of her repertoire.

be insecure in peace. allow yourself lowness. know that it is only a country on the way to who you are.

17. On the World by Francis Quarles

On the World is another short and beautiful travel poem that describes the life of a traveller.

The world’s an Inn; and I her guest. I eat; I drink; I take my rest. My hostess, nature, does deny me Nothing, wherewith she can supply me; Where, having stayed a while, I pay Her lavish bills, and go my way.

Hawa Mahal, one of the most beautiful monuments in Jaipur

18. Why Do I Travel by an unknown author

If you love traveling, you might relate to this poem which explains why the author travels. This piece is about what travel is all about, the adventure and the lessons it brings.

It is on the road that my inner voice speaks the loudest and my heart beats the strongest. It is on the road that I take extra pride in my wooly hair, full features and lineage. It is on the road that I develop extra senses and the hairs on my arms stand up and say “Sana, don’t go there”, and I listen. It’s when I safety pin my money to my underclothes and count it a million times before I go to sleep. It is on the road that I am a poet, an ambassador, a dancer, medicine woman, an angel and even a genius. It’s on the road that I am fearless and unstoppable and if necessary ball up my fist and fight back. It is on the road that I talk to my deceased parents and they speak back. It’s on the road that I reprimand myself, and set new goals, refuel, stop and begin again. It is on the road that I experience what freedom truly is. It is my travel that has transformed me making me a citizen of the world. When my humanness, compassion and affection are raised to a new level and I share unconditionally.

19. If Once You’ve Slept on an Island by Rachel Field

This beautiful poem talks about how travel changes you and how you will not be the same after sleeping on an island.

If once you have slept on an island You’ll never be quite the same; You may look as you looked the day before And go by the same old name, You may bustle about in street and shop You may sit at home and sew, But you’ll see blue water and wheeling gulls Wherever your feet may go. You may chat with the neighbors of this and that And close to your fire keep, But you’ll hear ship whistle and lighthouse bell And tides beat through your sleep. Oh! you won’t know why and you can’t say how Such a change upon you came, But once you have slept on an island, You’ll never be quite the same.

Woman sitting in frong of a lake with mountains in the back.

20. Die Slowly by Martha Medeiros

Although this poem covers more than travel alone, it’s incredibly relatable!

He who does not travel, who does not read, who can not hear music, who does not find grace in himself, she who does not find grace in herself, dies slowly.

He who slowly destroys his own self-esteem, who does not allow himself to be helped, who spends days on end complaining about his own bad luck, about the rain that never stops, dies slowly.

The Taj Mahal during sunrise. This is one of the most famous landmarks in Asia. It shows the front of the Taj Mahal and the sky is pink and yellow.

21. Oh, the Places You’ll Go by Dr. Seuss

This is another one of my favourite poems about travelling. It was written for the children’s book “Oh, the Places You’ll Go”, which was published in 1990.

Oh, the Places You’ll Go!

Congratulations! Today is your day. You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away!

You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes You can steer yourself Any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the guy who’ll decide where to go.

>> Read the full Dr. Seuss poem here

Poetry About Travel: Final Thoughts

And that was it, 21 of the best travel poems out there! I hope that you have found exactly what you were looking for in this list of travel poetry and that it gave you some inspiration.

I’m curious to hear what your favourite poem about travel is (mine are #1, #7 and 21)! Or did you come across other beautiful poetry about travel that’s not on this list? Let me know in the comments as I’m updating this post frequently.

Find more travel inspiration in the posts below:

56 Songs About Travel
21 Movies About Nomads
50 Solo Travel Quotes

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

7 Poems That Will Inspire You To Travel

MEET THE TEAM
PRIVACY POLICY
TERMS OF USE

FULL VIDEO (SOUND ON) 9 Must-Do’s In Lapland: Northern Lights & Reindeers!

These stanzas and poems are sure to inspire the traveler in you, li bai (chinese: 李白, 701-762).

Parting at a Wine-shop in Nan-king

A wind, bringing willow-cotton, sweetens the shop,

And a girl from Wu, pouring wine, urges me to share it.

With my comrades of the city who are here to see me off;

And as each of them drains his cup, I say to him in parting,

Oh, go and ask this river running to the east

If it can travel farther than a friend’s love!

Du Fu (Chinese: 杜甫, 712-770)

Traveling Again

I remember the temple, this route I’ve travelled before,

I recall the bridge as I cross it again.

It seems the hills and rivers have been waiting,

The flowers and willows all are selfless now.

The field is sleek, and vivid, thin mist shines,

On soft sand, the sunlight’s colour shows it’s late.

All the traveler’s sorrow fades away,

What better place to rest than this?

Walt Whitman (1819-1892)

Song of Myself (46, lines 1210-1214)

Not I, not any one else can travel that road for you,

You must travel it for yourself.

It is not far, it is within reach,

Perhaps you have been on it since you were born and did not know,

Perhaps it is everywhere on water and on land.

Christina Rossetti (1830-1894)

Does the road wind up-hill all the way?

Yes, to the very end.

Will the day’s journey take the whole long day?

From morn to night, my friend.

But is there for the night a resting-place?

A roof for when the slow dark hours begin.

May not the darkness hide it from my face?

You cannot miss that inn.

Shall I meet other wayfarers at night?

Those who have gone before.

Then must I knock, or call when just in sight?

They will not keep you standing at that door.

Shall I find comfort, travel-sore and weak?

Of labour you shall find the sum.

Will there be beds for me and all who seek?

Yea, beds for all who come.

Robert Frost (1874-1963)

The Road Not Taken

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,

And sorry I could not travel both

And be one traveler, long I stood

And looked down one as far as I could

To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, as just as fair,

And having perhaps the better claim

Because it was grassy and wanted wear,

Though as for that the passing there

Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay

In leaves no step had trodden black.

Oh, I kept the first for another day!

Yet knowing how way leads on to way

I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh

Somewhere ages and ages hence:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I,

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.

Khalil Gibran (1883-1931)

The Farewell (from The Prophet)

We wanderers, ever seeking the lonelier way,

begin no day where we have ended

another day; and no sunrise finds us where

sunset left us.

Even while the earth sleeps we travel.

We are the seeds of the tenacious plant,

and it is in our ripeness and our fullness of

heart that we are given to the wind and are

Dorothy Parker (1893-1967)

Half across the world from me

Lie the lands I’ll never see- I, whose longing lives and dies Where a ship has sailed away; I, that never close my eyes But to look upon Cathay.

Under deeper skies than mine, Quiet valleys dip and shine. Where their tender grasses heal Ancient scars of trench and tomb I shall never walk: nor kneel Where the bones of poets bloom.

If I seek a lovelier part, Where I travel goes my heart; Where I stray my thought must go; With me wanders my desire. Best to sit and watch the snow, Turn the lock, and poke the fire.

Jerry Alonzo Leon

Contributor.

Jerry's favorite country to travel to is Spain. When he's on the road, he keeps it real simple with a pen and a pad. His travel style is spontaneous, easygoing, and always in search of a great adventure.

Jetset Times in your inbox

By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and European users agree to the data transfer policy.

Poem Of The Day: Traveling Indoors

Poem Of The Day: 7:00 In NYC

Poem Of The Day: Praying Skyscrapers

Poem Of The Day: Mykonos Mirage

Poem Of The Day: Seeing Double In Amsterdam

National Poetry Month
Materials for Teachers
Literary Seminars
American Poets Magazine

Main navigation

Academy of American Poets

User account menu

Poems about Travel

Page submenu block.

literary seminars
materials for teachers
poetry near you

Take a poetry road trip across the United States and abroad with this curated collection of poems about vacation and travel, videos on poetic trips and poets abroad, poetry landmarks, walking tours, featured poetry books for literary travelers, and postcards from poets on summer vacations.

“ If You Get There Before I Do ” by Dick Allen Air out the linens, unlatch the shutters on the eastern side …

“ Flying ” by Sarah Arvio One said to me tonight or was it day …

“ Passing Through Albuquerque ” by John Balaban At dusk, by the irrigation ditch …

“ Looking for The Gulf Motel ” by Richard Blanco There should be nothing here I don’t remember …

“ Return to Florence ” by Cyrus Cassells How do I convey the shoring gold …

“ Vacation ” by Rita Dove I love the hour before takeoff …

“ Cattails ” by Nikky Finney One woman drives across five states just to see her …

“ Self-Portrait on the Street of an Unnamed Foreign City ” by Jennifer Grotz The lettering on the shop window in which …

“ Go Greyhound ” by Bob Hicok A few hours after Des Moines …

“ Spain ” by Major Jackson Beneath canopies of green, unionists marched doggedly …

“ Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles ” by Sally Wen Mao In Lijiang, the sign outside your hostel …

“ The Road from Biloxi ” by Khaled Mattawa Qader blew at a cigarette, stuck his head …

“ Travel ” by Edna St. Vincent Millay The railroad track is miles away …

“ Window Seat: Providence to New York City ” by Jacqueline Osherow My sixteenth …

“ Window ” by Carl Sandburg Night from a railroad car window …

“ Crostatas ” by Charlie Smith in rome I got down among the weeds and tiny perfumed …

“ Travel ” by Robert Louis Stevenson I should like to rise and go …

browse more poems about travel

browse more poems about vacations

browse more videos

Death, Be Not Proud: The Graves of Poets

Take a trip across the United States—with some trips abroad as well—and visit the resting places of several renowned poets with this listing of the graves of poets. Then visit the following poetry landmarks—from Langston Hughes’s hometown to the White Horse Tavern—across the United States.

The Poetry Walk in Berkeley, CA

The City Lights Bookstore in San Francisco, CA

The Poet Homes of Key West, FL

The Green Mill Cocktail Lounge in Chicago, IL

Langston Hughes’s Hometown of Lawrence, KS

Robert Penn Warren Birthplace Museum in Guthrie, KY

McLean Hospital in Belmont, MA

The George Edward Woodberry Poetry Room in Cambridge, MA

The Search for Anne Bradstreet in Essex County, MA

Edna St. Vincent Millay’s Hometown of Camden, ME

Robert Hayden’s Bus Route in Ann Arbor, MI

The Dixon Bar in Dixon, MT

George Moses Horton’s Hometown in Chatham County, NC

William Carlos Williams’ Hometown of Rutherford, NJ

The Brooklyn Bridge in Brooklyn, NY

The White Horse Tavern in New York, NY

The California Gulch Trail in La Grande, OR

James Wright’s Hometown of Martins Ferry, OH

The Marianne Moore Collection at the Rosenbach Museum & Library in Philadelphia, PA

Poets Via Post

Check out these summer postcards from poets across the U.S.

Robin Becker; postmarked July 2011, New Hampshire

Brenda Hillman; postmarked July 2011, California

Dana Levin; postmarked July 2011, New Mexico

Sharon Olds; postmarked July 2011, New Hampshire

browse more postcards

Walking Tours

Walt Whitman’s Printing House Square in New York City

Walt Whitman’s SoHo Historic District in New York City

Edgar Allan Poe’s Publishers Row in New York City

Herman Melville’s Downtown New York City

Langston Hughes’s Harlem of 1926

The Wallace Stevens Walk in Connecticut

Newsletter Sign Up

Academy of American Poets Newsletter
Academy of American Poets Educator Newsletter
Teach This Poem

The Most Inspiring Travel Poems

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Feb 25, 2023 | Quotes , Travel Tips

Searching for the best poems about adventure and travel?

We created this list featuring the best travel poems so that you can find the inspiration you’re looking for.

These poems about travel are specifically written for travelers.

Without further ado, let’s take a look at these unique poems for travelers.

If Once You Have Slept On An Island

If once you have slept on an island

You’ll never be quite the same;

You may look as you looked the day before

And go by the same old name,

You may bustle about in street and shop;

You may sit at home and sew,

But you’ll see blue water and wheeling gulls

Wherever your feet may go.

You may chat with the neighbors of this and that

And close to your fire keep,

But you’ll hear ship whistle and lighthouse bell

And tides beat through your sleep.

Oh, you won’t know why, and you can’t say how

Such change upon you came,

But – once you have slept on an island

You’ll never be quite the same!

Rachel Field

The Road Not Taken

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,

And sorry I could not travel both

And be one traveler, long I stood

And looked down one as far as I could

To where it bent in the undergrowth,

Then took the other, as just as fair,

And having perhaps the better claim,

Because it was grassy and wanted wear;

Though as for that the passing there

Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay

In leaves no step had trodden black.

Oh, I kept the first for another day!

Yet knowing how way leads on to way,

I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh

Somewhere ages and ages hence:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.

Robert Frost

Half across the world from me

Lie the lands I’ll never see-

I, whose longing lives and dies

Where a ship has sailed away;

I, that never close my eyes

But to look upon Cathay.

Things I may not know nor tell

Wait, where older waters swell;

Ways that flowered at Sappho’s tread,

Winds that sighed in Homer’s strings,

Vibrant with the singing dead,

Golden with the dust of wings.

Under deeper skies than mine,

Quiet valleys dip and shine.

Where their tender grasses heal

Ancient scars of trench and tomb

I shall never walk: nor kneel

Where the bones of poets bloom.

If I seek a lovelier part,

Where I travel goes my heart;

Where I stray my thought must go;

With me wanders my desire.

Best to sit and watch the snow,

Turn the lock, and poke the fire.

Dorothy Parker

The Opportune Moment

When you go ashore in that town,

take neither a camera nor a notebook.

However many photographs you upload

of that street, the smell of almond paste

will be missing; the harbour will not sound

of wind slapping on chains. You will read

notes like “Sami church”, later, and know

you saw nothing, never put it where

you could find it again, were never

really there. When you go ashore

in the small port with the rusty trawlers,

there will be fur hawkers who all look

like Genghis Khan on a market stall,

crumbling pavements, roses frozen in bud,

an altar with wool hangings, vessels

like canal ware, a Madonna

with a Russian doll face. When you go

ashore, take nothing but the knowledge

that where you are, you never will be again.

Sheenagh Pugh

I Want A Life Measured

I want a life measured

in first steps on foreign soils

and deep breaths

in brand new seas.

in Welcome Signs,

each stamped

with a different name,

borders marked with metal and paint.

Show me the streets

that don’t know the music

of my meandering feet,

and I will play their song

Perfume me please

in the smells of far away,

I will never wash my hair

if it promises to stay.

in the places I haven’t gone,

short sleeps on long flights,

strange voices teaching me

new words to

describe the dawn.

Tyler Knott Gregson

Travel Poem (Untitled)

We’re all wayfaring travellers,

Trudging down our separate roads,

Hoping, wishing, praying,

Someone will come to share our load,

There’s sunburn on our shoulders,

And there are blisters on our feet,

We brave the wildest blizzards,

And the scorching summer heat,

Sometimes we find somebody,

Who is going our way too,

And while they walk beside us,

The sky seems a bit more blue,

But all roads twist and turn,

And when you reach an intersection,

It’s likely life will take them,

In the opposite direction,

But don’t give up on hoping,

When your road is a dead end,

It’s likely that you’ll find,

It’s only really just a bend,

And though the other’s roads are different,

It doesn’t mean that yours is wrong,

So pick yourself back up again,

And just keep trudging on.

Erin Hansen

The Far North

I often wonder of the Tundra,

as I watch the plains go by.

Or I’ll dream of higher mountains

that almost seem to pierce the sky.

I yearn for vaster spaces

and for roaring, winding rivers.

Or of breezes rolling forward

that leave forests full of shivers.

I hear the voice of comfort

say I shouldn’t go alone

yet I’m pulled by tugs from elsewhere

that may someday be my home.

Jesse Humman

Questions Of Travel

There are too many waterfalls here; the crowded streams

hurry too rapidly down to the sea,

and the pressure of so many clouds on the mountaintops

makes them spill over the sides in soft slow-motion,

turning to waterfalls under our very eyes.

–For if those streaks, those mile-long, shiny, tearstains,

aren’t waterfalls yet,

in a quick age or so, as ages go here,

they probably will be.

But if the streams and clouds keep travelling, travelling,

the mountains look like the hulls of capsized ships,

slime-hung and barnacled.

Think of the long trip home.

Should we have stayed at home and thought of here?

Where should we be today?

Is it right to be watching strangers in a play

in this strangest of theatres?

What childishness is it that while there’s a breath of life

in our bodies, we are determined to rush

to see the sun the other way around?

The tiniest green hummingbird in the world?

To stare at some inexplicable old stonework,

inexplicable and impenetrable,

at any view,

instantly seen and always, always delightful?

Oh, must we dream our dreams

and have them, too?

And have we room

for one more folded sunset, still quite warm?

Elizabeth Bishop

I should like to rise and go

Where the golden apples grow;–

Where below another sky

Parrot islands anchored lie,

And, watched by cockatoos and goats,

Lonely Crusoes building boats;–

Where in sunshine reaching out

Eastern cities, miles about,

Are with mosque and minaret

Among sandy gardens set,

And the rich goods from near and far

Hang for sale in the bazaar;–

Where the Great Wall round China goes,

And on one side the desert blows,

And with the voice and bell and drum,

Cities on the other hum;–

Where are forests hot as fire,

Wide as England, tall as a spire,

Full of apes and cocoa-nuts

And the negro hunters’ huts;–

Where the knotty crocodile

Lies and blinks in the Nile,

And the red flamingo flies

Hunting fish before his eyes;–

Where in jungles near and far,

Man-devouring tigers are,

Lying close and giving ear

Lest the hunt be drawing near,

Or a comer-by be seen

Swinging in the palanquin;–

Where among the desert sands

Some deserted city stands,

All its children, sweep and prince,

Grown to manhood ages since,

Not a foot in street or house,

Not a stir of child or mouse,

And when kindly falls the night,

In all the town no spark of light.

There I’ll come when I’m a man

With a camel caravan;

Light a fire in the gloom

Of some dusty dining-room;

See the pictures on the walls,

Heroes fights and festivals;

And in a corner find the toys

Of the old Egyptian boys.

Robert Louis Stevenson

Riding Alone For Thousands Of Miles

In Lijiang, the sign outside your hostel

glares: Ride alone, ride alone, ride

alone – it taunts you for the mileage

of your solitude, must be past

thousands, for you rode this plane

alone, this train alone, you’ll ride

this bus alone well into the summer night,

well into the next hamlet, town,

city, the next century, as the trees twitch

and the clouds wane and the tides

quiver and the galaxies tilt and the sun

spins us another lonely cycle, you’ll

wonder if this compass will ever change.

The sun doesn’t need more heat,

so why should you? The trees don’t need

to be close, so why should you?

Sally Wen Mao

Final Thoughts On Travel Poems

These poems for travelers are powerful and inspiring.

We hope you enjoyed our list featuring the best adventure poems.

Looking for more inspiration? Take a look at the following blog posts:

Travel expressions
Best travel jokes
Best mountain puns

MY TOP RECOMMENDATIONS

BOOK HOTEL ON BOOKING.COM

BOOK HOSTEL ON HOSTELWORLD

GET YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

LEARN HOW TO START A TRAVEL BLOG

LEARN HOW TO VOLUNTEER ABROAD

Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

16 Best Poems About Travel and Life

December 17, 2021 by Tracey Nesbitt

We have compiled some of the best poems about travel into one post. They represent a wide variety of views and are taken from different time periods. They raise questions, share the joys of travel, and remind us to not take it for granted. Enjoy!

Table of Contents

If You Were in Cairo by Simon Constam

Members of the Solo Traveler Insiders , our premium membership program, were treated to a reading of this poem by the author at a recent virtual event.

If You Were in Cairo

If you were in Cairo, and I in Kampala; if you took to Phoenix, and I to Havana; if you sojourned in Saigon, and I in Phnom Penh even that short distance would deeply offend. And seeing as how I’d want to stay close to you, I’d find every which way to stay in touch with you.

If you moved to Tuvalu, to live or to work, And email was stalled and the phones didn’t work. I’d train clever pigeons to soar up above, to faithfully reach you with my missives of love.

I’d vouchsafe a letter with a monk in a monastery. I’d entrust my love note to an Amazon missionary. I’d hire a Sherpa to mountain climb after you on Everest, on Lhotse, Nanga Parbat or K2…

I would do anything to keep myself close to you. I’d learn Swahili, Hindi, and even Urdu. No hurdle of language I’d have to confront, could ever deter my untiring want.

You can travel as far and as long as you like by plane, train, or boat, by car or by bike. I’d find a way, some way, to reach out to you, I’d even use snail mail if I absolutely had to.

If you flew supersonically out into the blue, I’d radio the pilot to tell you I love you. If you pined for space travel and lived in the shuttle, and our back and forth was a quite public muddle, and officials below and your crewmates above had all grown quite tired of such raging, unending, fulsome, embarrassing love,

no matter the trouble I’d have surely incurred, I’d carry on calling, could not be deterred by pleading from NASA, complaints or protests, they’d have to come get me, put me under arrest.

If not-talking was something that you took a vow for, I’d read to you, sing to you, whatever you’d need me to. I’d learn to lip read and learn to sign too There’s really no end to what I would do.

I’d follow you through darkness. I’d follow you through rain. My daily attention might drive you insane.

Have I made my point clear? You have nothing to fear I’m resourceful enough to keep loving you.

So great is my love, I am indefatigable . When it comes to you, love, I can’t stop loving you!

Viaggiate by Gio Evan

I recently came across this poem when a friend shared it on Facebook. From what I can piece together (most information I could find about him is written in Italian, so I am at the mercy of Google Translate) Gio Evan spent about eight years traveling around India, South America, and Europe by bike. Perhaps the inspiration for this piece came from his journey. His website describes him as a “multifaceted artist, writer and poet, philosopher, humorist, performer, songwriter and street artist.”

New poems about travel don't come along every day, so this one is a nice surprise. Evan encourages us to travel for learning and personal growth, greater understanding and acceptance, and a feeling of connection to the world.

As I was unable to find an official English translation, I have posted the poem in the original Italian, straight from Evan's Facebook page, alongside the English version I first read online.

Travel/Viaggiate

Consolation by Billy Collins

This poem, by former US Poet Laureate Billy Collins, who was the first recipient of the Mark Twain Prize for Humor in Poetry, celebrates the time we spend at home. It encourages us to appreciate our time not traveling as much as our time traveling. It takes on a slightly different meaning now, at a time when none of us can travel

Consolation

How agreeable it is not to be touring Italy this summer, wandering her cities and ascending her torrid hilltowns. How much better to cruise these local, familiar streets, fully grasping the meaning of every roadsign and billboard and all the sudden hand gestures of my compatriots. There are no abbeys here, no crumbling frescoes or famous domes and there is no need to memorize a succession of kings or tour the dripping corners of a dungeon. No need to stand around a sarcophagus, see Napoleon's little bed on Elba, or view the bones of a saint under glass. How much better to command the simple precinct of home than be dwarfed by pillar, arch, and basilica. Why hide my head in phrase books and wrinkled maps? Why feed scenery into a hungry, one-eyes camera eager to eat the world one monument at a time? Instead of slouching in a café ignorant of the word for ice, I will head down to the coffee shop and the waitress known as Dot. I will slide into the flow of the morning paper, all language barriers down, rivers of idiom running freely, eggs over easy on the way. And after breakfast, I will not have to find someone willing to photograph me with my arm around the owner. I will not puzzle over the bill or record in a journal what I had to eat and how the sun came in the window. It is enough to climb back into the car as if it were the great car of English itself and sounding my loud vernacular horn, speed off down a road that will never lead to Rome, not even Bologna.

Dislocation by Simon Constam

People who don't travel a lot don't always understand how hard it can be. They often mistake traveling for taking a holiday. But they are very different things. Traveling, especially long term, challenges and stretches one in many ways. Time constraints on short trips can cause you to explore from morning to night, returning at the end exhausted yet ready to do it again the next day.

Dislocation

I envy those who envy me for traveling. Sometimes I sit on a foreign street in a busy cafe, imagining you wishing you were here, feeling for the first time the thrilling flush of wanting to be elsewhere, the frisson of happiness that wishes bring. And so I sit quietly knowing that now it’s time to figure out just what it is I meant to do here.

Of this poem about travel, Simon says: “I wrote Dislocation back when I was 19, in the middle of my round-the-world trip. The meaning and purpose of travel is not always evident. To build confidence, some would say. To open one's eyes, say others. And some would say to realize their destinies. I would often sit at an outdoor cafe wondering what it was exactly I was doing while the wheels and gears of everyday were spinning relentlessly at home.”

You can follow Simon on Instagram @dailyferocity where he publishes a new aphorism every day, or sign up to receive them by email .

Learning to Travel by Julene Tripp Weaver

Traveling long-term allows you to travel slowly. In fact, it demands that you travel slowly. And what are the benefits of that? It's about learning the language, cooking with an old woman, having children knock on your door when something exciting is happening. How wonderful.

But then, in this poem by Julene Tripp Weaver, the circus comes to town. New opportunities arise. And the traveler picks up and follows the opportunities “beneath the throw of the knife”. They ignore the risk of leaving what is comfortable and explore new horizons.

Learning to Travel

She will learn French, enough to greet and shop become known. A French baker befriends her. After a long summer she stays on into the fall writes poems, picks wild herbs. An old woman cooks with her. They sit in silence while the sun sets. In the evening she lights candles, when hungry they share bread and cheese. A circus comes to town, young children knock on her door to watch elephants parade in the street. Tents are raised. A knife thrower invites her for his act. The wind of flying knives pulses dreams of moving on with the circus until there is no question. She will go. She pulls together a bag says goodbye to the old woman to the baker, to the children, moves to the next town beneath the throw of the knife.

Majorca by John Cooper Clarke

Instead of treating travel with reverence, this poem offers another truth about travel which is not quite, well, reverential. As Clarke says in his intro, it's about holiday packages. Love them or hate them, most of us can relate to this poem in one way or another.

Don't miss hearing Clarke perform this piece himself by scrolling to the bottom of the poem.

fasten your seatbelts says a voice inside the plane you can't hear no noise engines made by rolls royce take your choice …make mine majorca check out the parachutes can't be found alert those passengers they'll be drowned a friendly mug says “settle down” when i came round i was gagged and bound …for Majorca and the eyes caress the neat hostess her unapproachable flip finesse i found the meaning of the word excess they've got little bags if you wanna make a mess i fancied Cuba but it cost me less …to Majorca (Whose blonde sand fondly kisses the cool fathoms of the blue mediteranean) they packed us into the white hotel you could still smell the polycell wet white paint in the air-conditioned cells the waiter smelled of fake Chanel Gaulois… Garlic as well says if i like… i can call him “Miguel” …well really i got drunk with another fella who'd just brought up a previous paella he wanted a fight but said they were yella' …in Majorca the guitars rang and the castinets clicked the dancer's stamped and the dancer's kicked it's likely if you sang in the street you'd be nicked the double diamond flowed like sick mother's pride, tortilla and chips pneumatic drills when you try to kip …in Majorca a stomach infection put me in the shade must have been something in the lemonade but by the balls of franco i paid had to pawn my bucket and spade next year I'll take the international brigade …to Majorca

Questions of Travel by Elizabeth Bishop

Why do we travel? Is it, as Elizabeth Bishop suggests, a lack of imagination?

Elizabeth Bishop (1911-1979) is considered one of the great American poets of the 20th century. Enjoy this beautiful poem about travel.

Questions of Travel

There are too many waterfalls here; the crowded streams hurry too rapidly down to the sea, and the pressure of so many clouds on the mountaintops makes them spill over the sides in soft slow-motion, turning to waterfalls under our very eyes. –For if those streaks, those mile-long, shiny, tearstains, aren't waterfalls yet, in a quick age or so, as ages go here, they probably will be. But if the streams and clouds keep travelling, travelling, the mountains look like the hulls of capsized ships, slime-hung and barnacled.

Think of the long trip home. Should we have stayed at home and thought of here? Where should we be today? Is it right to be watching strangers in a play in this strangest of theatres? What childishness is it that while there's a breath of life in our bodies, we are determined to rush to see the sun the other way around? The tiniest green hummingbird in the world? To stare at some inexplicable old stonework, inexplicable and impenetrable, at any view, instantly seen and always, always delightful? Oh, must we dream our dreams and have them, too? And have we room for one more folded sunset, still quite warm?

But surely it would have been a pity not to have seen the trees along this road, really exaggerated in their beauty, not to have seen them gesturing like noble pantomimists, robed in pink. –Not to have had to stop for gas and heard the sad, two-noted, wooden tune of disparate wooden clogs carelessly clacking over a grease-stained filling-station floor. (In another country the clogs would all be tested. Each pair there would have identical pitch.) –A pity not to have heard the other, less primitive music of the fat brown bird who sings above the broken gasoline pump in a bamboo church of Jesuit baroque: three towers, five silver crosses. –Yes, a pity not to have pondered, blurr'dly and inconclusively, on what connection can exist for centuries between the crudest wooden footwear and, careful and finicky, the whittled fantasies of wooden footwear and, careful and finicky, the whittled fantasies of wooden cages. –Never to have studied history in the weak calligraphy of songbirds' cages. –And never to have had to listen to rain so much like politicians' speeches: two hours of unrelenting oratory and then a sudden golden silence in which the traveller takes a notebook, writes:

“Is it lack of imagination that makes us come to imagined places, not just stay at home? Or could Pascal have been not entirely right about just sitting quietly in one's room?

Continent, city, country, society: the choice is never wide and never free. And here, or there . . . No. Should we have stayed at home, wherever that may be?”

For the Traveler by John O’Donohue

Aren't poetry and travel simply two different modes of exploring the world? Of learning who we are, what we believe, and how it all fits together?

When we are surrounded by family and friends, we are subject to their expectations of us. Our behavior, even our thoughts, are circumscribed by a desire for acceptance. Traveling solo you have time to discover who you are, what's really in your heart, when no one is looking.

John O'Donohue was born in 1956 and died in 2008. An Irish scholar, philosopher, priest, and poet, his first published work was “Anam Cara” which holds a wonderful quote for solo travelers:

“When you cease to fear your solitude, a new creativity awakens in you. Your forgotten or neglected wealth begins to reveal itself. You come home to yourself and learn to rest within. Thoughts are our inner senses. Infused with silence and solitude, they bring out the mystery of inner landscape.”

For the Traveler

Every time you leave home, Another road takes you Into a world you were never in. New strangers on other paths await. New places that have never seen you Will startle a little at your entry. Old places that know you well Will pretend nothing Changed since your last visit. When you travel, you find yourself Alone in a different way, More attentive now To the self you bring along, Your more subtle eye watching You abroad; and how what meets you Touches that part of the heart That lies low at home: How you unexpectedly attune To the timbre in some voice, Opening in conversation You want to take in To where your longing Has pressed hard enough Inward, on some unsaid dark, To create a crystal of insight You could not have known You needed To illuminate Your way. When you travel, A new silence Goes with you, And if you listen, You will hear What your heart would Love to say. A journey can become a sacred thing: Make sure, before you go, To take the time To bless your going forth, To free your heart of ballast So that the compass of your soul Might direct you toward The territories of spirit Where you will discover More of your hidden life, And the urgencies That deserve to claim you. May you travel in an awakened way, Gathered wisely into your inner ground; That you may not waste the invitations Which wait along the way to transform you. May you travel safely, arrive refreshed, And live your time away to its fullest; Return home more enriched, and free To balance the gift of days which call you.

The Lady in 38C by Lori Jakiela

Traveling on a regular basis, flight attendants have a chance to see the world. Serving hundreds of people every day from different cultures, different economic classes, genders, ages, and every other attribute that contributes to making individuals unique, they are positioned to observe and appreciate the human condition.

Poet Lori Jakiela worked for Delta Air Lines for six years. She is now a professor at The University of Pittsburgh-Greensburg.

This poem is about unadulterated joy. Using her experience as a flight attendant, Jakiela focuses us on how we often miss the joy that life has to offer.

The Lady in 38C

The Lady in 38 C gets confused. She thinks I'm her nurse. “Nurse!” she yells. “My finger!” So I bring her a band-aid and put it on even though she's fine. “Oh thank you nurse!” she yells. “You're a good one.” She winks and smiles and the woman next to her glares into her computer. I think the old lady's charming. She's 86, still pretty. Her eyes are blue. Her hair is a cloud. She looks exactly like what's outside. She's the only air in this cabin, the only light. “Nurse!” she yells, and I look back over the sad heads, eggs in a carton, faces pressed against the mite-ridden blankets and pillows they fought for, and there she is, beaming. “Nurse,” she says. “Where are we?” I take her hand and look out the window. I scratch my head, smile and say, “Somewhere over Idunno.” She's the only passenger who's ever gotten that joke. Up here, nearly everyone is miserable. I count on small joys to get by. The woman in 38C says, “Oh, Nurse!” and the woman next to her who probably thinks we're somewhere over Idaho, that wonderland of Hemingway and golden potatoes, rolls her eyes and bangs the computer keys until the seatbelt sign goes on and the captain says, “We'll be experiencing weather.” which is what people say instead of scary things like storm and turbulence and pretty soon the plane is bouncing and the woman with the computer grips her armrest while the old lady throws her arms up like she's on a roller coaster and yells, “They should charge extra for this!”

The World Won’t Miss You for a While by Kathryn Simmonds

Perhaps the world will continue turning if you take a break now and then. And, just maybe, on your return you’ll make a better contribution to it.

In this poem, Kathryn Simmonds, a British poet born in 1972 illustrates that stepping off the planet is not just for busy Type A personalities. It is for Hare Krishnas, sous chefs, and apprentice pharmacists. It is for everyone.

The World Won’t Miss You for a While

Lie down with me you hillwalkers and rest, untie your boots and separate your toes, ignore the compass wavering north/north west. Quit trailing through the overcrowded streets with tinkling bells, you child of Hare Krishna. Hush. Unfurl your saffron robes. How sweet the grass. And you, photographer of wars, lie down and cap your lens. Ambassador, take off your dancing shoes. There are no laws by which you must abide oh blushing boy with Stanley knife, no county magistrates are waiting here to dress you down: employ yourself with cutting up these wild flowers as you like. Sous chef with baby guinea fowl to stuff, surveillance officer with hours to fill, and anorexic weighing up a meal, lie down. Girl riding to an interview, turn back before they force you to reveal your hidey holes. Apprentice pharmacist, leave carousels of second generation happy pills. The long term sad. And journalist with dreams, forget the man from Lancashire who lost his tongue, the youth who found it, kept it quivering in a matchbox for a year.

3 Poems About Travel by Sheenagh Pugh

Ah, if the roads we take every day could offer us the surprises, even on occasion, that travel delivers.

In this first poem about travel by Sheenagh Pugh, a British poet (originally from Wales) who says in her biography “I have been accused of being ‘populist’ and ‘too accessible,’ both of which I hope are true,” we are offered a road to explore what we don't know. To see what could be. What could happen.

Travel cannot always be on our agenda but we can still look around blind corners for new discoveries.

What If This Road

What if this road, that has held no surprises these many years, decided not to go home after all; what if it could turn left or right with no more ado than a kite-tail? What if its tarry skin were like a long, supple bolt of cloth, that is shaken and rolled out, and takes a new shape from the contours beneath? And if it chose to lay itself down in a new way; around a blind corner, across hills you must climb without knowing what's on the other side; who would not hanker to be going, at all risks? Who wants to know a story's end, or where a road will go?

Many of us spend too much time documenting our travels rather than experiencing them.

We could live more fully in the moment. We could savor the experience to learn more deeply and remember more clearly.

In this second poem by Sheenagh Pugh, we are advised that notes and images offer little upon our return.

The Opportune Moment

If you were waiting for the opportune moment, that was it” – Capt Jack Sparrow, Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl When you go ashore in that town, take neither a camera nor a notebook. However many photographs you upload of that street, the smell of almond paste will be missing; the harbour will not sound of wind slapping on chains. You will read notes like “Sami church”, later, and know you saw nothing, never put it where you could find it again, were never really there. When you go ashore in the small port with the rusty trawlers, there will be fur hawkers who all look like Genghis Khan on a market stall, crumbling pavements, roses frozen in bud, an altar with wool hangings, vessels like canal ware, a Madonna with a Russian doll face. When you go ashore, take nothing but the knowledge that where you are, you never will be again

There are two parts to this final poem about travel by Sheenagh Pugh. The first projects a future when our travel is not around the world but to Earth. It muses on a time when we have ruined our planet to the point that we no longer live here and it has become a destination suitable only for the “young and fit”. Do our travels contribute to this potential future?

The second part urges the reader to take it all in deeply, with all your senses. This applies equally to today's travelers as tomorrow’s. It explores the possible ways of experiencing a new place. It is gorgeous.

Do You Think We’ll Ever Get to See Earth, Sir?

I hear they're hoping to run trips one day, for the young and fit, of course. I don't see much use in it myself; there'll be any number of places you can't land, because they're still toxic, and even in the relatively safe bits you won't see what it was; what it could be. I can't fancy a tour through the ruins of my home with a party of twenty-five and a guide to tell me what to see. But if you should see some beautiful thing, some leaf, say, damascened with frost, some iridescence on a pigeon's neck, some stone, some curve, some clear water; look at it as if you were made of eyes, as if you were nothing but an eye, lidless and tender, to be probed and scorched by extreme light. Look at it with your skin, with the small hairs on the back of your neck. If it is well-shaped, look at it with your hands; if it has fragrance, breathe it into yourself; if it tastes sweet, put your tongue to it. Look at it as a happening, a moment; let nothing of it go unrecorded, map it as if it were already passing. Look at it with the inside of your head, look at it for later, look at it for ever, and look at it once for me.

Song of the Open Road by Walt Whitman

The open road holds the pleasures of solitude as well as surprising adventures.

Walt Whitman (American poet, essayist, and journalist, 1819-1892) wrote his “Song of the Open Road” long before the automobile was invented. But somehow, that notion of the open road was already present in the American psyche. This is a massive poem, epic in nature.

Song of the Open Road

Afoot and light-hearted I take to the open road, Healthy, free, the world before me, The long brown path before me leading wherever I choose. Henceforth I ask not good-fortune, I myself am good-fortune, Henceforth I whimper no more, postpone no more, need nothing, Done with indoor complaints, libraries, querulous criticisms, Strong and content I travel the open road. The earth, that is sufficient, I do not want the constellations any nearer, I know they are very well where they are, I know they suffice for those who belong to them. (Still here I carry my old delicious burdens, I carry them, men and women, I carry them with me wherever I go, I swear it is impossible for me to get rid of them, I am fill'd with them, and I will fill them in return.) 2 You road I enter upon and look around, I believe you are not all that is here, I believe that much unseen is also here. Here the profound lesson of reception, nor preference nor denial, The black with his woolly head, the felon, the diseas'd, the illiterate person, are not denied; The birth, the hasting after the physician, the beggar's tramp, the drunkard's stagger, the laughing party of mechanics, The escaped youth, the rich person's carriage, the fop, the eloping couple, The early market-man, the hearse, the moving of furniture into the town, the return back from the town, They pass, I also pass, any thing passes, none can be interdicted, None but are accepted, none but shall be dear to me. 3 You air that serves me with breath to speak! You objects that call from diffusion my meanings and give them shape! You light that wraps me and all things in delicate equable showers! You paths worn in the irregular hollows by the roadsides! I believe you are latent with unseen existences, you are so dear to me. You flagg'd walks of the cities! you strong curbs at the edges! You ferries! you planks and posts of wharves! you timber-lined side! you distant ships! You rows of houses! you window-pierc'd facades! you roofs! You porches and entrances! you copings and iron guards! You windows whose transparent shells might expose so much! You doors and ascending steps! you arches! You gray stones of interminable pavements! you trodden crossings! From all that has touch'd you I believe you have imparted to yourselves, and now would impart the same secretly to me, From the living and the dead you have peopled your impassive surfaces, and the spirits thereof would be evident and amicable with me. 4 The earth expanding right hand and left hand, The picture alive, every part in its best light, The music falling in where it is wanted, and stopping where it is not wanted, The cheerful voice of the public road, the gay fresh sentiment of the road. O highway I travel, do you say to me Do not leave me? Do you say Venture not–if you leave me you are lost? Do you say I am already prepared, I am well-beaten and undenied, adhere to me? O public road, I say back I am not afraid to leave you, yet I love you, You express me better than I can express myself, You shall be more to me than my poem. I think heroic deeds were all conceiv'd in the open air, and all free poems also, I think I could stop here myself and do miracles, I think whatever I shall meet on the road I shall like, and whoever beholds me shall like me, I think whoever I see must be happy. 5 From this hour I ordain myself loos'd of limits and imaginary lines, Going where I list, my own master total and absolute, Listening to others, considering well what they say, Pausing, searching, receiving, contemplating, Gently, but with undeniable will, divesting myself of the holds that would hold me. I inhale great draughts of space, The east and the west are mine, and the north and the south are mine. I am larger, better than I thought, I did not know I held so much goodness. All seems beautiful to me, can repeat over to men and women You have done such good to me I would do the same to you, I will recruit for myself and you as I go, I will scatter myself among men and women as I go, I will toss a new gladness and roughness among them, Whoever denies me it shall not trouble me, Whoever accepts me he or she shall be blessed and shall bless me. 6 Now if a thousand perfect men were to appear it would not amaze me, Now if a thousand beautiful forms of women appear'd it would not astonish me. Now I see the secret of the making of the best persons, It is to grow in the open air and to eat and sleep with the earth. Here a great personal deed has room, (Such a deed seizes upon the hearts of the whole race of men, Its effusion of strength and will overwhelms law and mocks all authority and all argument against it.) Here is the test of wisdom, Wisdom is not finally tested in schools, Wisdom cannot be pass'd from one having it to another not having it, Wisdom is of the soul, is not susceptible of proof, is its own proof, Applies to all stages and objects and qualities and is content, Is the certainty of the reality and immortality of things, and the excellence of things; Something there is in the float of the sight of things that provokes it out of the soul. Now I re-examine philosophies and religions, They may prove well in lecture-rooms, yet not prove at all under the spacious clouds and along the landscape and flowing currents. Here is realization, Here is a man tallied–he realizes here what he has in him, The past, the future, majesty, love–if they are vacant of you, you are vacant of them. Only the kernel of every object nourishes; Where is he who tears off the husks for you and me? Where is he that undoes stratagems and envelopes for you and me? Here is adhesiveness, it is not previously fashion'd, it is apropos; Do you know what it is as you pass to be loved by strangers? Do you know the talk of those turning eye-balls? 7 Here is the efflux of the soul, The efflux of the soul comes from within through embower'd gates, ever provoking questions, These yearnings why are they? these thoughts in the darkness why are they? Why are there men and women that while they are nigh me the sunlight expands my blood? Why when they leave me do my pennants of joy sink flat and lank? Why are there trees I never walk under but large and melodious thoughts descend upon me? (I think they hang there winter and summer on those trees and always drop fruit as I pass;) What is it I interchange so suddenly with strangers? What with some driver as I ride on the seat by his side? What with some fisherman drawing his seine by the shore as I walk by and pause? What gives me to be free to a woman's and man's good-will? what gives them to be free to mine? 8 The efflux of the soul is happiness, here is happiness, I think it pervades the open air, waiting at all times, Now it flows unto us, we are rightly charged. Here rises the fluid and attaching character, The fluid and attaching character is the freshness and sweetness of man and woman, (The herbs of the morning sprout no fresher and sweeter every day out of the roots of themselves, than it sprouts fresh and sweet continually out of itself.) Toward the fluid and attaching character exudes the sweat of the love of young and old, From it falls distill'd the charm that mocks beauty and attainments, Toward it heaves the shuddering longing ache of contact. 9 Allons! whoever you are come travel with me! Traveling with me you find what never tires. The earth never tires, The earth is rude, silent, incomprehensible at first, Nature is rude and incomprehensible at first, Be not discouraged, keep on, there are divine things well envelop'd, I swear to you there are divine things more beautiful than words can tell. Allons! we must not stop here, However sweet these laid-up stores, however convenient this dwelling we cannot remain here, However shelter'd this port and however calm these waters we must not anchor here, However welcome the hospitality that surrounds us we are permitted to receive it but a little while. 10 Allons! the inducements shall be greater, We will sail pathless and wild seas, We will go where winds blow, waves dash, and the Yankee clipper speeds by under full sail. Allons! with power, liberty, the earth, the elements, Health, defiance, gayety, self-esteem, curiosity; Allons! from all formules! From your formules, O bat-eyed and materialistic priests. The stale cadaver blocks up the passage–the burial waits no longer. Allons! yet take warning! He traveling with me needs the best blood, thews, endurance, None may come to the trial till he or she bring courage and health, Come not here if you have already spent the best of yourself, Only those may come who come in sweet and determin'd bodies, No diseas'd person, no rum-drinker or venereal taint is permitted here. (I and mine do not convince by arguments, similes, rhymes, We convince by our presence.) 11 Listen! I will be honest with you, I do not offer the old smooth prizes, but offer rough new prizes, These are the days that must happen to you: You shall not heap up what is call'd riches, You shall scatter with lavish hand all that you earn or achieve, You but arrive at the city to which you were destin'd, you hardly settle yourself to satisfaction before you are call'd by an irresistible call to depart, You shall be treated to the ironical smiles and mockings of those who remain behind you, What beckonings of love you receive you shall only answer with passionate kisses of parting, You shall not allow the hold of those who spread their reach'd hands toward you. 12 Allons! after the great Companions, and to belong to them! They too are on the road–they are the swift and majestic men–they are the greatest women, Enjoyers of calms of seas and storms of seas, Sailors of many a ship, walkers of many a mile of land, Habitues of many distant countries, habitues of far-distant dwellings, Trusters of men and women, observers of cities, solitary toilers, Pausers and contemplators of tufts, blossoms, shells of the shore, Dancers at wedding-dances, kissers of brides, tender helpers of children, bearers of children, Soldiers of revolts, standers by gaping graves, lowerers-down of coffins, Journeyers over consecutive seasons, over the years, the curious years each emerging from that which preceded it, Journeyers as with companions, namely their own diverse phases, Forth-steppers from the latent unrealized baby-days, Journeyers gayly with their own youth, journeyers with their bearded and well-grain'd manhood, Journeyers with their womanhood, ample, unsurpass'd, content, Journeyers with their own sublime old age of manhood or womanhood, Old age, calm, expanded, broad with the haughty breadth of the universe, Old age, flowing free with the delicious near-by freedom of death. 13 Allons! to that which is endless as it was beginningless, To undergo much, tramps of days, rests of nights, To merge all in the travel they tend to, and the days and nights they tend to, Again to merge them in the start of superior journeys, To see nothing anywhere but what you may reach it and pass it, To conceive no time, however distant, but what you may reach it and pass it, To look up or down no road but it stretches and waits for you, however long but it stretches and waits for you, To see no being, not God's or any, but you also go thither, To see no possession but you may possess it, enjoying all without labor or purchase, abstracting the feast yet not abstracting one particle of it, To take the best of the farmer's farm and the rich man's elegant villa, and the chaste blessings of the well-married couple, and the fruits of orchards and flowers of gardens, To take to your use out of the compact cities as you pass through, To carry buildings and streets with you afterward wherever you go, To gather the minds of men out of their brains as you encounter them, to gather the love out of their hearts, To take your lovers on the road with you, for all that you leave them behind you, To know the universe itself as a road, as many roads, as roads for traveling souls. All parts away for the progress of souls, All religion, all solid things, arts, governments–all that was or is apparent upon this globe or any globe, falls into niches and corners before the procession of souls along the grand roads of the universe. Of the progress of the souls of men and women along the grand roads of the universe, all other progress is the needed emblem and sustenance. Forever alive, forever forward, Stately, solemn, sad, withdrawn, baffled, mad, turbulent, feeble, dissatisfied, Desperate, proud, fond, sick, accepted by men, rejected by men, They go! they go! I know that they go, but I know not where they go, But I know that they go toward the best–toward something great. Whoever you are, come forth! or man or woman come forth! You must not stay sleeping and dallying there in the house, though you built it, or though it has been built for you. Out of the dark confinement! out from behind the screen! It is useless to protest, I know all and expose it. Behold through you as bad as the rest, Through the laughter, dancing, dining, supping, of people, Inside of dresses and ornaments, inside of those wash'd and trimm'd faces, Behold a secret silent loathing and despair. No husband, no wife, no friend, trusted to hear the confession, Another self, a duplicate of every one, skulking and hiding it goes, Formless and wordless through the streets of the cities, polite and bland in the parlors, In the cars of railroads, in steamboats, in the public assembly, Home to the houses of men and women, at the table, in the bedroom, everywhere, Smartly attired, countenance smiling, form upright, death under the breast-bones, hell under the skull-bones, Under the broadcloth and gloves, under the ribbons and artificial flowers, Keeping fair with the customs, speaking not a syllable of itself, Speaking of any thing else but never of itself. 14 Allons! through struggles and wars! The goal that was named cannot be countermanded. Have the past struggles succeeded? What has succeeded? yourself? your nation? Nature? Now understand me well–it is provided in the essence of things that from any fruition of success, no matter what, shall come forth something to make a greater struggle necessary. My call is the call of battle, I nourish active rebellion, He going with me must go well arm'd, He going with me goes often with spare diet, poverty, angry enemies, desertions. 15 Allons! the road is before us! It is safe–I have tried it–my own feet have tried it well–be not detain'd! Let the paper remain on the desk unwritten, and the book on the shelf unopen'd! Let the tools remain in the workshop! let the money remain unearn'd! Let the school stand! mind not the cry of the teacher! Let the preacher preach in his pulpit! let the lawyer plead in the court, and the judge expound the law. Camerado, I give you my hand! I give you my love more precious than money, I give you myself before preaching or law; Will you give me yourselp. will you come travel with me? Shall we stick by each other as long as we live?

Why Do I Travel? Author Unknown

It is on the road that I am a poet, an ambassador, a dancer, medicine woman, an angel and even a genius

Traveling solo provides an opportunity to explore that aspect of your life which may be overshadowed by responsibilities and the expectations of others. It is an opportunity to live as a poet, an ambassador, a dancer, or whatever role you would, in a perfect world, take on. In doing so you will be that much closer to a well-earned label of genius.

We’ve been unable to confirm the author of this poem about travel. Perhaps Sana Musama or Musasama, but we can’t be certain. Regardless, it's a beautiful and significant piece of writing. If you have more details on the poet, please let us know so we can properly acknowledge them.

Why do I travel?

It is on the road that my inner voice speaks the loudest and my heart beats the strongest. It is on the road that I take extra pride in my wooly hair, full features and lineage. It is on the road that I develop extra senses and the hairs on my arms stand up and say “Sana, don't go there”, and I listen. It's when I safety pin my money to my underclothes and count it a million times before I go to sleep, It is on the road that I am a poet, an ambassador, a dancer, medicine woman, an angel and even a genius. It's on the road that I am fearless and unstoppable and if necessary ball up my fist and fight back. It is on the road that I talk to my deceased parents and they speak back It's on the road that I reprimand myself, and set new goals, refuel, stop and begin again. It is on the road that I experience what freedom truly is. It is my travel that has transformed me making me a citizen of the world. When my humanness, compassion and affection are raised to a new level and I share unconditionally.

The Return by Geneen Marie Haugen

Single people are frequently the butt of jokes and jibes about “getting lucky”. But this term takes on a whole new meaning through solo travel, as it does in this poem. Here, one gets lucky when they return from travel “trailing snake scales, wing fragments and the musk of Earth and moon”.

Not everyone understands the need to travel and fewer still understand the need of solo travelers to head out on their own. By traveling solo, you can connect more deeply with a place and its people than when you are distracted by a companion. You get close to the ground, to the “musk of the earth”. You will be more affected by travel.

The poet, Geneen Marie Haugen is a writer, wilderness wanderer, and scholar.

Some day, if you are lucky, you'll return from a thunderous journey trailing snake scales, wing fragments and the musk of Earth and moon. Eyes will examine you for signs of damage, or change and you, too, will wonder if your skin shows traces of fur, or leaves, if thrushes have built a nest of your hair, if Andromeda burns from your eyes. Do not be surprised by prickly questions from those who barely inhabit their own fleeting lives, who barely taste their own possibility, who barely dream. If your hands are empty, treasureless, if your toes have not grown claws, if your obedient voice has not become a wild cry, a howl, you will reassure them. We warned you, they might declare, there is nothing else, no point, no meaning, no mystery at all, just this frantic waiting to die. And yet, they tremble, mute, afraid you've returned without sweet elixir for unspeakable thirst, without a fluent dance or holy language to teach them, without a compass bearing to a forgotten border where no one crosses without weeping for the terrible beauty of galaxies and granite and bone. They tremble, hoping your lips hold a secret, that the song your body now sings will redeem them, yet they fear your secret is dangerous, shattering, and once it flies from your astonished mouth, they — like you — must disintegrate before unfolding tremulous wings.

The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost

This may be one of the most well known poems about travel.

In travel, in life, is the road less traveled more courageous? Is it better? Maybe. Maybe not. But whatever course you take it will make all the difference.

The Road Not Taken

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, And sorry I could not travel both And be one traveler, long I stood And looked down one as far as I could To where it bent in the undergrowth; Then took the other, as just as fair, And having perhaps the better claim Because it was grassy and wanted wear, Though as for that the passing there Had worn them really about the same, And both that morning equally lay In leaves no step had trodden black. Oh, I marked the first for another day! Yet knowing how way leads on to way I doubted if I should ever come back. I shall be telling this with a sigh Somewhere ages and ages hence: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I, I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.

Die Slowly by Martha Medeiros

This poem delivers a most positive outlook on life from the most negative angle possible.

Solo travel helps you flip on its head all that Martha Medeiros says contributes to a slow death. It causes you to change routines in your own rhythm, challenge yourself, build self-esteem, ask questions, explore with curiosity, and expand your world.

We all deserve splendid happiness. I hope you find yours.

He who becomes the slave of habit, who follows the same routes every day, who never changes pace, who does not risk and change the color of his clothes, who does not speak and does not experience, dies slowly. He or she who shuns passion, who prefers black on white, dotting ones i's rather than a bundle of emotions, the kind that make your eyes glimmer, that turn a yawn into a smile, that make the heart pound in the face of mistakes and feelings, dies slowly. He or she who does not turn things topsy-turvy, who is unhappy at work, who does not risk certainty for uncertainty, to thus follow a dream, those who do not forego sound advice at least once in their lives, die slowly. He who does not travel, who does not read, who does not listen to music, who does not find grace in himself, she who does not find grace in herself, dies slowly. He who slowly destroys his own self-esteem, who does not allow himself to be helped, who spends days on end complaining about his own bad luck, about the rain that never stops, dies slowly. He or she who abandons a project before starting it, who fails to ask questions on subjects he doesn't know, he or she who doesn't reply when they are asked something they do know, dies slowly. Let's try and avoid death in small doses, reminding oneself that being alive requires an effort far greater than the simple fact of breathing. Only a burning patience will lead to the attainment of a splendid happiness

What are your favorite poems about travel? Tell us about them and their meaning for you in the comments section below.

Thinking about hitting the open road? Check out our Solo Road Trip category . Do you have a solo travel story to tell? Share your photos and the story of your trip here.

Sharing is caring!

Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

Get Solo Travel News & Deals

Create Your Advertiser Account
Login to Your Advertiser Account
Solo Travel Statistics
Media & Speaking
Privacy Policy & Disclosure

The content of Solo Traveler and any resources published by Solo Traveler are meant for entertainment and inspiration only. Please note that while we have advertising clients promoting destinations, products, services, trips and tours on Solo Traveler and that we endeavour to only work with companies in which we have confidence, we are not responsible for the delivery or quality of their products or services. Every person and every travel situation is different. Your safety, satisfaction and fun traveling solo are your responsibility alone and not that of Solo Traveler, its publisher, editor and/or writers.

PRIVACY POLICY & DISCLOSURE: In accordance with FTC guidelines, I disclose that I may be compensated if consumers choose to utilize links located throughout the content on this site. Additionally, some posts might be sponsored to support this site. Please do the appropriate research before participating in any third party offers. All opinions are my own. Please read our full Privacy Policy here.

The best poems on travel

Discover some of the best poems about travel including verses from thomas hardy, walt whitman and edgar allan poe..

Here, we have gathered some of the greatest poems written about the allure of travel, and the wonders that can be discovered when we venture beyond our own doorsteps.

Discover our edit of the best poetry books.

From The Silverado Squatters

There are no foreign lands. It is the traveller only who is foreign.

Robert Louis Stevenson (1850–1894)

A Prayer for Travellers

May the road rise up to meet you.

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face;

The rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

On the World

The world’s an inn; and I her guest.

I eat; I drink; I take my rest.

My hostess, nature, does deny me

Nothing, wherewith she can supply me;

Where, having stayed a while, I pay

Her lavish bills, and go my way.

Francis Quarles (1592–1644)

If Once You Have Slept on an Island

If once you have slept on an island

You’ll never be quite the same;

You may look as you looked the day before

And go by the same old name,

You may bustle about in street and shop;

You may sit at home and sew,

But you’ll see blue water and wheeling gulls

Wherever your feet may go.

You may chat with the neighbors of this and that

And close to your fire keep,

But you’ll hear ship whistle and lighthouse bell

And tides beat through your sleep.

Oh, you won’t know why, and you can’t say how

Such change upon you came,

But – once you have slept on an island

You’ll never be quite the same!

Rachel Field (1894–1942)

Gaily bedight,

A gallant knight,

In sunshine and in shadow,

Had journeyed long,

Singing a song,

In search of Eldorado.

But he grew old –

This knight so bold –

And o’er his heart a shadow

Fell, as he found

No spot of ground

That looked like Eldorado.

And, as his strength

Failed him at length,

He met a pilgrim shadow –

‘Shadow,’ said he,

‘Where can it be –

This land of Eldorado?’

‘Over the Mountains

Of the Moon,

Down the Valley of the Shadow,

Ride, boldly ride,’

The shade replied,

‘If you seek for Eldorado!’

Edgar Allan Poe (1809–1849)

I met a traveller from an antique land

Who said: Two vast and trunkless legs of stone

Stand in the desert. Near them, on the sand,

Half sunk, a shattered visage lies, whose frown,

And wrinkled lip, and sneer of cold command

Tell that its sculptor well those passions read

Which yet survive (stamped on these lifeless things)

The hand that mocked them and the heart that fed:

And on the pedestal these words appear:

‘My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings:

Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!’

Nothing beside remains. Round the decay

Of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare

The lone and level sands stretch far away.

Percy Bysshe Shelley (1792–1822)

A Strip of Blue

I do not own an inch of land,

But all I see is mine, –

The orchard and the mowing fields,

The lawns and gardens fine.

The winds my tax-collectors are,

They bring me tithes divine, –

Wild scents and subtle essences,

A tribute rare and free;

And, more magnificent than all,

My window keeps for me

A glimpse of blue immensity, –

A little strip of sea.

Richer am I than he who owns

Great fleets and argosies;

I have a share in every ship

Won by the inland breeze,

To loiter on yon airy road

Above the apple-trees,

I freight them with my untold dreams;

Each bears my own picked crew;

And nobler cargoes wait for them

Than ever India knew, –

My ships that sail into the East

Across that outlet blue.

Sometimes they seem like living shapes, –

The people of the sky, –

Guests in white raiment coming down

From heaven, which is close by;

I call them by familiar names,

As one by one draws nigh,

So white, so light, so spirit-like,

From violet mists they bloom!

The aching wastes of the unknown

Are half reclaimed from gloom,

Since on life’s hospitable sea

All souls find sailing-room.

The ocean grows a weariness

With nothing else in sight;

Its east and west, its north and south,

Spread out from morn till night;

We miss the warm, caressing shore,

Its brooding shade and light.

Lucy Larcom (1824–1893)

O to sail in a ship,

To leave this steady unendurable land,

To leave the tiresome sameness of the streets,

the sidewalks and the houses,

To leave you, O you solid motionless land, and

entering a ship,

To sail and sail and sail!

Walt Whitman (1819–1892)

Midnight on the Great Western

In the third-class sat the journeying boy,

And the roof-lamp’s oily flame

Played down on his listless form and face,

Bewrapt past knowing to what he was going,

Or whence he came.

In the band of his hat the journeying boy

Had a ticket stuck; and a string

Around his neck bore the key of his box,

That twinkled gleams of the lamp’s sad beams

Like a living thing.

What past can be yours, O journeying boy,

Towards a world unknown,

Who calmly, as if incurious quite

On all at stake, can undertake

This plunge alone?

Knows your soul a sphere, O journeying boy,

Our rude realms far above,

Whence with spacious vision you mark and mete

This region of sin that you find you in

But are not of?

Thomas Hardy (1840–1928)

Give me the long, straight road before me,

A clear, cold day with a nipping air,

Tall, bare trees to run on beside me,

A heart that is light and free from care.

Then let me go! – I care not whither

My feet may lead, for my spirit shall be

Free as the brook that flows to the river,

Free as the river that flows to the sea.

Olive Runner

Poems for Travellers

By gaby morgan.

Poems for Travellers is part of the Macmillan Collector’s Library, with an introduction from the esteemed travel writer Paul Theroux. From Walt Whitman to Christina Rossetti, this collection contains some of the finest poems ever written about travel.

Embark on a Journey of Life: Exploring the Pathway’s Prose

In our journey through life, we navigate a complex and ever-changing pathway, encountering diverse experiences, challenges, and moments of joy. It is a journey marked by significant milestones, lessons, and the pursuit of meaning and fulfillment. Along the way, we ponder the meaning of life, seek our purpose, and grapple with the obstacles that come our way. How do we grow and evolve as we encounter these challenges, and where do we find happiness and contentment? These questions shape our understanding of the journey of life and the legacy we hope to leave behind.

Join us as we explore the pathways of life, the lessons we learn, and the moments that shape us in our quest for happiness and fulfillment.

Key Takeaways:

Life is a journey filled with different paths, challenges, and lessons.
Finding our purpose and overcoming obstacles are key to achieving fulfillment in life.
By leaving a positive impact and finding joy, we can create a meaningful legacy on our journey of life.

10 Amazing Poems About The Journey of Life

1. pathways unfold.

In life’s journey, a path winds and bends, A story that twists, turns, and extends. Each step, a tale of dreams and fears, Years of laughter, joy, and tears.

We walk in the light, and sometimes in the dark, Marking our trail with an indelible mark. Life’s road with its highs and lows, Shows us where the heart truly goes.

Through forests of doubt and fields of hope, We cope, finding ways to adapt and cope. In every journey, a lesson learned, Earned in the miles we’ve traversed and turned.

Life, a journey of endless scope, In every step, a chance to grow, to cope. A path unique, with stories untold, Bold in its unfolding, a sight to behold.

Did You Know? The longest walking route on Earth is the proposed Transglobal Highway, a network of roads and ferries that would connect most of the continents on Earth. This remarkable journey would span approximately 33,000 kilometers (20,500 miles), offering a unique way to experience diverse cultures and landscapes. More about this epic journey can be explored through the Transglobal Highway project .

2. River of Time

Life flows like a river, steady and true, Through new and old, through the past and new. Its current strong, with moments swift, Adrift in time’s unceasing shift.

In the waters of life, we find our way, Day by day, in the flow and sway. Through calm streams and turbulent tide, We ride, with time as our guide.

Each bend brings a new sight, unseen, A scene of what has been and what will be. In the river of time, we learn to navigate, Celebrate each twist of fate.

Life, a journey on time’s endless stream, A dream, where past and future gleam. In the flow of years, moments shine bright, Light in the river’s dynamic flight.

3. Mountain Ascent

Life’s journey, an ascent of a mountain high, Sky-reaching peaks, under the open sky. Each step, an effort, a climb toward the peak, Seeking the summit, the answers we seek.

The path is steep, rugged, and long, Strong is the heart that sings the mountain’s song. With each rise and fall, with each testing bend, We mend, growing stronger with each ascend.

The view from the top, a sight so grand, A land of dreams, where we understand. In life’s climb, challenges we face, Embrace each step with courage and grace.

The journey of life, a mountain’s tale, A trail of triumphs, where we prevail. In the climb, we find our spirit’s might, In the height of life’s challenging flight.

Did You Know? Mount Everest, the highest mountain on Earth, has been a symbol of life’s challenges and achievements. It stands at a staggering height of 8,848 meters (29,029 feet). The journey to its summit is not just a physical challenge, but also a mental and spiritual one, much like the journey of life. Discover more about Everest and its climbers at the Himalayan Database .

4. Desert Crossing

Across life’s desert, vast and wide, We stride, under the sun’s scorching guide. A land of extremes, of heat and cold, Bold are the stories in this landscape told.

Each grain of sand, a moment in time, Sublime in its simplicity, yet profound and prime. In the desert’s expanse, we find our strength, Length of resilience, measured at length.

The journey through life’s arid ground, Found in the silence, a profound sound. Mirages of hope, oases of dreams, Seems life is more than what it seems.

In the desert of life, we learn to endure, Pure in our quest, our intentions sure. A passage of self, of discovery and test, In the quest of life’s arid, challenging quest.

5. Sea Voyage

Life, a voyage across the vast sea, Free, where the waves dictate where we’ll be. A journey of depths, of storms and calm, A balm of experiences, a healing psalm.

The ocean’s expanse, wide and deep, A leap into the unknown, a giant sweep. In the tides and currents, we find our way, Day by day, in the play of spray.

Navigating life’s high seas, Sees us through joys and heartache’s freeze. In the ebb and flow of time’s tide, We ride, with hope as our guide.

Life’s journey, a sea adventure, wide and vast, A cast of moments, memories that last. In the voyage of life, on the ocean’s crest, We quest, in our search for life’s best.

Did You Know? The Mariana Trench is the deepest part of the world’s oceans, reaching a depth of about 10,984 meters (36,037 feet). Exploring this part of the ocean is as challenging as exploring outer space, symbolizing the depths and mysteries of life’s journey. The trench’s deepest point, known as Challenger Deep, can be explored further through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s website .

6. Forest Trail

Through the forest of life, a trail winds, Finds its way through the trees, the binds. A journey of shadows and dappled light, A sight of nature’s strength and might.

In the woodland’s embrace, paths diverge, Emerge new routes, as our lives surge. Twists and turns, in the forest deep, Keep us seeking, in life’s game of hide and seek.

Among the trees, we find our peace, Cease the noise, let the quiet increase. In the forest of life, lessons are learned, Earned in the tranquility for which we yearned.

Life, a journey through a forest’s maze, A gaze into nature’s mysterious ways. In the woods, we wander and explore, More of life’s secrets, in its core.

7. Urban Odyssey

In the city of life, an odyssey unfolds, Holds a tale of the new and the old. Skyscrapers of dreams, streets of fate, A state of constant change, at a rapid rate.

The urban jungle, alive and loud, Proud in its diversity, a cosmopolitan crowd. In the hustle and bustle, we find our beat, A feat of survival, in the city’s heat.

Life’s journey through the urban sprawl, A call to adapt, to stand tall. In the maze of streets, lessons to learn, Earn our place, at every turn.

The city of life, a journey of discovery, A story of humanity, in all its glory. In the urban odyssey, we find our way, Day by day, in the city’s lively play.

Did You Know? Tokyo, Japan, is one of the largest and most populous cities in the world, symbolizing the complexity and excitement of urban life. With a population of over 37 million in the greater metropolitan area, Tokyo is a prime example of urban expansion, blending ancient traditions with modern innovations. Explore Tokyo’s unique blend of the old and new at Tokyo’s Official Travel Guide .

8. Country Road

Down life’s country road, a journey so serene, Seen in the rolling hills, the landscape green. A path of simplicity, of quiet and calm, A balm of nature’s soothing palm.

The countryside, with its tranquil charm, A farm of life’s experiences, a place to disarm. In the rhythm of the rural pace, A space to breathe, to embrace grace.

Along the country road, life unwinds, Finds its rhythm in the fields and pines. A journey of peace, of slow and steady, Ready to enjoy the scenic beauty.

Life, a country road, a path less trodden, A cotton of quiet, where worries are forgotten. In the countryside, life’s journey is clear, Near to nature’s heart, close and dear.

9. Stairway to Dreams

Life’s journey, a stairway to our dreams, Seems to rise to infinite schemes. Each step, a climb towards our goal, A role in the play of the soul.

The staircase of life, steep and tall, Calls us to rise, to face it all. With each rise, a new level reached, Teached by the steps life has breached.

The ascent, a challenge of heart and mind, Find our strength, our unique kind. In the climb, dreams come into sight, A light at the top, shining bright.

Life, a stairway of hopes and fears, Years of climbing towards our frontiers. In the journey up life’s stairway, A play of dreams, day by day.

10. Galactic Trek

Life, a galactic trek through space and time, A climb through the cosmos, a journey sublime. In the vastness of the universe, we find our way, A play of stars and galaxies in display.

Through the Milky Way, our life’s path weaves, Believes in the journey of cosmic leaves. Astronauts of existence, in the space we roam, Home in the infinite, where stars foam.

The journey of life, a voyage so grand, A band of experiences, in the cosmic land. In the galaxy of existence, we explore, More of life’s mysteries, in its core.

Life’s trek through the stars, a celestial quest, A test of our spirit, in the cosmic zest. In the galactic journey of life, we sail, A tale of adventure, on an epic scale.

What Is the Journey of Life?

The journey of life is a remarkable odyssey filled with diverse experiences, profound emotions, and the pursuit of self-discovery and growth. It is an adventure that encompasses the myriad paths we tread, the love we encounter, and the reflections that shape our perspectives.

Every step taken, every challenge overcome, adds a unique hue to the canvas of our existence, creating a masterpiece like no other. As time unfolds, we navigate through the ebbs and flows, tasting the sweetness of triumph and feeling the sting of loss. Love , whether tender or tumultuous, adds splendor to this journey, infusing our hearts with a kaleidoscope of emotions, teaching us the depths of vulnerability and the heights of joy.

Self-discovery unfolds like the blooming of a flower, revealing layers of our being we never knew existed. It is a profound exploration, echoing whispers of growth and resilience as we confront our fears and embrace our strengths. Each twist and turn is an opportunity to learn, awaken, and evolve, painting our lives with hues of wisdom and understanding.

What Are the Different Paths We Take in Life?

Life presents a multitude of paths, each adorned with unique experiences, challenges, and opportunities for growth. These paths are akin to verses in a poem, weaving together our experiences and perspectives into a tapestry of existence.

Some paths lead through verdant meadows, where the soft petals of opportunity glisten with the morning dew, while others navigate the rugged terrain of adversity, sculpting resilience from every rock and thorn. Each footfall, a syllable in the grand composition of life’s journey, carries the rhythm of our stories.

From the bustling city streets to the tranquil whispers of nature’s embrace, the diverse landscapes we traverse mirror the intricacies of our own inner landscapes, shaping our perceptions and aspirations. As we thread through the ebbs and flows, our paths intertwine, forming the interconnected verses of human existence, each imbued with the poetic essence of our shared humanity.

What Is the Meaning of Life?

The meaning of life resides in the profound exploration of purpose , the relentless pursuit of self-discovery , and the ceaseless quest for inspiration and lessons that enrich our existence. It is a tapestry woven from the threads of love, growth, and the enigmatic dance of success and failure.

Life’s complexities unfold as we navigate through the ebb and flow of experiences, each moment a brushstroke painting the canvas of our journey. Through introspection, we unravel purpose’s elusive tendrils, seeking to grasp its essence amidst the tumultuous winds of uncertainty. In the pursuit of self-discovery, we embark on an odyssey, looking into the depths of our being, uncovering hidden facets that shape our understanding of existence. These revelations spur inspiration, nurturing the germination of possibilities and expansiveness in our perception of the world. From each adversity, we glean profound lessons, forging resilience and the temerity to embrace change. Life’s enigmatic harmony emanates from this intertwining tapestry of experiences, weaving a mosaic of growth and enlightenment.

How Do We Find Our Purpose in Life?

Discovering our purpose in life entails navigating through the labyrinth of challenges, embracing the winds of change, and seeking inspiration from the wisdom of Rumi. It is a journey of self-discovery and growth, a dance with the unknown to unravel the purpose that ignites our souls.

In the pursuit of purpose, we are called to explore the depths of our being, to venture into the uncharted territories of our hearts. Through the chaos and tranquility, we find that every challenge is a stepping stone, every setback a lesson, and every joy a reminder of our inner calling. Rumi’s words resonate, guiding us to look inward, to connect with our essence , and to embrace the journey, knowing that the answers lie within.

What Are the Challenges We Face in Life?

Life presents an array of challenges, each akin to a mountain waiting to be conquered or a river to be crossed . These obstacles are the crucibles in which our growth is forged, and the mirrors that reflect the kaleidoscope of our emotions and reflections.

As we navigate through these intricate labyrinths, we find ourselves confronting the depths of our fears and the heights of our aspirations. The journey molds us, chiseling away the rough edges of our character, imbuing us with resilience and wisdom.

How Do We Overcome Obstacles in Our Journey?

Overcoming the obstacles that punctuate our journey requires unwavering perseverance , akin to summiting the formidable peaks of Mount Everest. It is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience and the relentless pursuit of success amidst the labyrinth of challenges.

Embracing the mindset of a valiant mountaineer, one must cultivate grit to navigate the treacherous terrain, and a steadfast determination to conquer the insurmountable. Fear must be confronted, for it is often the shadow that looms large, obscuring the path ahead.

The summit of Mount Everest beckons each individual to redefine their limits – pushing beyond what was previously thought attainable, and embracing the fortitude necessary to withstand the howling winds of adversity.

What Are the Lessons We Learn Along the Way?

The journey of life bestows upon us a trove of invaluable lessons , each intricately woven into the fabric of our growth and transformation. These lessons serve as beacons of inspiration, illuminating our path through the labyrinth of challenges and triumphs.

Through the ebb and flow of life’s tapestry, we come to understand that lessons are not confined to classrooms or books but are an integral part of our daily experiences, shaping us in profound ways. The wisdom gained from overcoming adversities and celebrating victories etches a profound resilience within us, enableing us to endure and thrive.

As we reflect on the invaluable lessons imprinted on our souls, we recognize how they have sculpted our character, fostering empathy, wisdom, and gratitude.

How Do We Grow and Evolve on Our Journey?

The journey of life is a crucible for growth and evolution , akin to the transformative odyssey portrayed by Dante Alighieri. It is a symphony of self-discovery, a kaleidoscope of lessons, and a tapestry woven from the diverse perspectives that shape our existence.

In the labyrinth of our experiences, we encounter the challenges that shape our character and propel us toward growth. As we traverse through the circles of our personal inferno and face the shadows of our own making, we deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world.

Each trial and triumph serves as a crucible in which our resilience and resolve are forged, refining our spirit as we ascend towards enlightenment.

From the depths of our abyss , we emerge stronger, enlightened by the wisdom gained from our encounters with the divine and the mundane .

What Are the Milestones in Our Journey of Life?

The journey of life is adorned with an array of milestones , each marking the culmination of profound experiences, exponential growth, and introspective reflections. These milestones are the tapestries that adorn the grand narrative of our existence, signifying the evolution and transformation we undergo.

As we traverse the expansive terrain of existence, these milestones stand as the emblems of perseverance and accomplishment, testifying to our resilience and fortitude. They serve as beacons of progress, guiding us through the labyrinth of challenges and triumphs.

Each milestone etches a story into the fabric of time, capturing the moments of triumph, perseverance, and self-discovery.

What Are the Significant Moments That Shape Us?

Life’s journey is punctuated by significant moments, akin to the poignant verses of Morri Life , which etch themselves into the tapestry of our emotions and the saga of love. These moments become the crucibles that shape our essence, imbuing our journey with depth and meaning.

It is within these moments that we find ourselves facing the intricate dance of joy and sorrow, hope and despair, serenity and chaos. Just as Morri Life encapsulates the raw emotions of the human experience, so too do these impactful moments ripple through our souls, leaving an indelible mark. They are the crescendos and diminuendos in the symphony of our lives, resonating with the essence of love and growth.

How Do We Find Happiness and Fulfillment on Our Journey?

The pursuit of happiness and fulfillment on life’s journey is akin to a lyrical dance of love , self-discovery, and the perpetual quest for inspiration. It is an odyssey that resonates with the echoes of joy, the tapestries of love, and the kaleidoscope of self-discovery that imbue our existence with meaning.

Every step in this dance is adorned with the intricate patterns of emotions, each movement revealing the depths of our desires and dreams. The rhythm of love intertwines with the melody of self-discovery, creating a harmonious symphony that guides us through the labyrinth of experiences.

Through this captivating choreography, we unravel the layers of our soul, embracing our vulnerabilities, and finding strength in our inspiration to pursue the uncharted paths of our aspirations.

What Brings Us Joy and Contentment in Life?

The tapestries of joy and contentment in life are akin to the resonating verses of Margaret Fishback Powers, weaving together the essence of love, diverse perspectives , and the kaleidoscope of happiness . They form the lyrical symphony that enriches our journey with meaning and purpose.

Just as a tapestry is formed by weaving together myriad threads, joy and contentment in life stem from the intertwining of love, acceptance , and gratitude . Each thread represents a unique experience, a diverse perspective that adds depth and richness to the fabric of our existence.

The tapestries of joy are not uniform; rather, they are a patchwork of moments, emotions, and connections that create a beautiful mosaic. It is through embracing the variety of experiences and perspectives that we can truly appreciate the intricate beauty of our own unique tapestries of joy.

What Is the Legacy We Leave Behind on Our Journey?

The legacy we leave behind on life’s journey is an indelible imprint of our impact, a testament to our growth, and a reflection of our profound self-discovery. It is a tapestry woven from the threads of inspiration, the echoes of love, and the transformative essence of our existence.

Every action, every word spoken, every choice made contributes to this tapestry of legacy . Our impact ripples through the lives we touch, shaping the world in both subtle and grand ways. As we traverse through the labyrinth of life, our legacy becomes a roadmap for those who walk in our footsteps, guiding them to navigate their own journey with wisdom and empathy.

It is the echo of our voice, the warmth of our embrace, and the wisdom of our experiences that linger, becoming a source of inspiration for generations to come.

How Do We Make a Positive Impact on Others?

Making a positive impact on others during life’s journey is akin to crafting a symphony of inspiration and resilience, echoing the narratives of Vidya. It is a testament to our ability to transcend challenges, inspire others, and weave a tapestry of hope and compassion within the grand narrative of existence.

When we draw inspiration from the narratives of Vidya, we tap into the profound wellspring of compassion that underpins her remarkable story. Like Vidya, each step we take in the pursuit of spreading positivity and resilience contributes to the sublime harmony of human existence.

The ripples of our actions, no matter how small, resonate with the indomitable spirit that Vidya embodies, enriching the collective symphony of human experience. Through empathy and supportive gestures, we can uplift others amidst their struggles, manifesting inspiration and fortitude in everyday interactions.

11 Mindfulness Poems: Reflections on the Present Moment

7 Poems About Eating Disorders: Words of Hope and Healing

SanFair Newsletter

Short Poems & Quotes

Christian Poems
Poems About Books
Poems of Encouragment
Funny Poems
Famous Poems
Friendship Poems
Garden Poems
Inspirational Poems
Poems About Life
Nature Poems
Short Love Poems
Christian Quotes
Encouragement Quotes
Meaningful Friendship Quotes
Funny Quotes about Life
Inspirational Quotes
Life Quotes
Short Love Quotes
Special Occasion Poems Quotes
Christmas Poems
Thanksgiving Poems
Birthday Poems
Retirement Poems
Graduation Poems

11 Life Journey Poems

The Journey Poet Unknown You got to have some trouble in this rough old world of ours, You got to fight the bumblebee, sometimes to pick the flowers; Your going find fin' a heap of roughness in the rocky road, Before you get what you can rest and lay aside the load. But be humble, and don't grumble, Because you sometimes slip and stumble, And seems to drop behind the rest of all the hustlin' throng. Don't stop an' start a-whining And a-whimpering and a pinning, But pick your feet up, honey, and go traveling along. You may have fears of troubles that will hit you hard someday, But they're bound to catch you if you halt along the way. You got to keep a moving. Some are fast and some are slow. But all that's looked for from you is to do the best you know. So don't you wait and worry, If you fall down in your hurry, And never mind the chaffing And the hollering and the laughing, Just pull yourself together as you hum a little song, But pick your feet up, honey, and go travelling along.

A Journey Poet: Dr. M. Coleman Harris Life is like a journey Taken on a train With a pair of travellers At each windowpane. I may sit beside you All the journey through, Or I may sit elsewhere Never knowing you. But if fate should make me To sit by your side, Let’s be pleasant travelers; It’s so short a ride.
A Purpose Poet: Catherine Pulsifer Looking around the world, big and small, Every one of us is on a journey to help all. A purpose to fulfill, a role to play in society. An opportunity to excel, not for anxiety! We have special gifts, each one of us; Our life is truly a precious trust! On life's journey find love and grace; Life is meant to be lived, it is not a race.

Life's Journey Poet: Ella Wheeler Wilcox As we speed out of youth's sunny station The track seems to shine in the light, But it suddenly shoots over chasms Or sinks into tunnels of night. And the hearts that were brave in the morning Are filled with repining and fears, As they pause at the City of Sorrow Or pass through the Valley of Tears. But the road of this perilous journey The hand of the Master has made; With all its discomforts and dangers, We need not be sad or afraid. Paths leading from light into darkness, Ways plunging from gloom to despair, Wind out through the tunnels of midnight To fields that are blooming and fair. Though the rocks and the shadows surround us, Though we catch not one gleam of the day, Above us fair cities are laughing, And dipping white feet in some bay. And always, eternal, for ever, Down over the hills in the west, The last final end of our journey, There lies the great Station of Rest. 'Tis the Grand Central point of all railways, All roads unite here when they end; 'Tis the final resort of all tourists, All rival lines meet here and blend. All tickets, all seasons, all passes, If stolen or begged for or bought, On whatever road or division, Will bring you at last to this spot. If you pause at the City of Trouble, Or wait in the Valley of Tears, Be patient, the train will move onward, And rush down the track of the years. Whatever the place is you seek for, Whatever your game or your quest, You shall come at the last with rejoicing To the beautiful City of Rest. You shall store all your baggage of worries, You shall feel perfect peace in this realm, You shall sail with old friends on fair waters, With joy and delight at the helm. You shall wander in cool, fragrant gardens With those who have loved you the best, And the hopes that were lost in life's journey You shall find in the City of Rest.

Silver And Gold Poet: Unknown Get of this life I shall never take Things of silver and gold I make. All that I cherish and hoard away, After I leave, on earth must stay. All that I gather and all that I keep, I must leave behind when I fall asleep. And I often wonder what I shall own In the other life when I pass along. What shall they find and what shall they see In the soul that answers the call for me? Shall the Great Judge learn, when my task is through, That my spirit has gathered some riches, too? Or shall at the last it be mine to find That all I'd worked for I'd left behind?
Roses and Sunshine Poet: Edgar A. Guest Rough is the road I am journeying now, Heavy the burden I'm bearing to-day; But I'm humming a song, as I wander along, And I smile at the roses that nod by the way. Red roses sweet, Blooming there at my feet, Just dripping with honey and perfume and cheer; What a weakling I'd be If I tried not to see The joy and the comfort you bring to us here. Just tramping along o'er the highway of life, Knowing not what's ahead but still doing my best; And I sing as I go, for my soul seems to know In the end I shall come to the valley of rest. With the sun in my face And the roses to grace The roads that I travel, what have I to fear? What a coward I'd be If I tried not to see The roses of hope and the sunshine of cheer.

Our Journey Poet: Catherine Pulsifer, © 2020 Our journey through life has its ups and downs Sometimes feelings of being sad and others of a clown We all have highs and the lows Many happy times and times of sorrow. But there is one factor that makes a difference It is the attitude of your preference. Do you look for the good or do you see the bad Your attitude determines whether you're happy or sad. Our journey can be negative or it can be positive Is just depends on our life perspective. No matter what happens, no matter the time Find the good and upward you will climb. Life is too short to sit and moan Seize the good and it can change your life tone Our journey through life can be a happy one A positive attitude can bring more fun!

Life And Moods Poet: Patience Strong Moods will lead you such a dance - If you just give them half a chance. They'll lift you up and fling you down. They'll turn a smile into a frown. They'll drive you into black despairs. They'll creep upon you unaware... Your friends will drop you one by one - no wonder, for there's not much fun - in people who are bright and gay - and dull, and bored with life, next day... So don't be swayed by each new mood... Just throw them off, or they'll intrude - and spoil some bright and happy hour... For you, yourself, give them power.

It's The Journey That's Important... Poet: John McLeod Life, sometimes so wearying Is worth its weight in gold The experience of traveling Lends a wisdom that is old Beyond our 'living memory' A softly spoken prayer: "It's the journey that's important, Not the getting there!" Ins and outs and ups and downs Life's road meanders aimlessly? Or so it seems, but somehow Leads us where we need to be, And being simply human We oft question and compare... "Is the journey so important Or the getting there?" And thus it's always been That question pondered down the ages By simple men with simple ways To wise and ancient sages... How sweet then, quietly knowing Reaching destination fair: "It's the journey that's important, Not the getting there!"

it's the journey that's important, not the getting there!

These Would I Keep Poet: Lida Marie Erwin These would I keep: My faith in men, Though one may stumble now and then - A faith which helps me still to see What God intends a man to be. A cheery heart, in spite of fate; The strength to work, the patience to wait; A hand that lifts a brother up And shares with him the bitter cup. A spirit calm, despite the storm. Which sees through clouds, the stalwart form Of Him who stilled the maddened wave - Is ever near to help and save. The optimism childhood had; The simple trust that made me glad; The beauty of life in its crimson dawn - These would I keep as I journey on.

The Light Of A Cheerful Heart Poet: Max Ehrmann I tell you that you and I and the commonest person are all journeying the same way, hemmed in by the same narrow path, leading to the eternal years. We pride ourselves over our particular superiority; but really there is little difference between us; And in this journey over the thousand hills and valleys called life, he is wisest who is patient where the way is hard, has faith when he does not understand, and carries into the dark places the light of a cheerful heart.

POPULAR PAGES

Shouting from my shed

Get the latest news, updates and happenings via my shed-based newsletter.

Shouting from my shed Join the newsletter

Alastair Humphreys

Living adventurously, ten great poems of journeys.

I usually take a book of poetry on my travels. You can re-read them, and they also make you think. Here are 10 of my favourite poems of journeys. I’mll put one up in full on the site each Sunday for the next 10 weeks.

– Ulysses: Alfred, Lord Tennyson – Sea-Fever: John Masefield – Poetry of Departures: Philip Larkin – The Bright Field: RS Thomas – To an English Friend in Africa: Ben Okri – High Flight: John Gillespie Magee – The Call of the Wild: Robert Service – Home from Abroad: Laurie Lee – Journey of the Magi: TS Eliot (I also love the Waste Land but do not profess to understand it at all!) – The Explorer: Rudyard Kipling

Have I missed your favourite poem? Have your say in the comments…

Invictus by William Henley-carry it with me everywhere.

Alistair, surely you’ve forgotten the absolute classics: Aeneid and Iliad. They’re not in English and probably classed as epics, but great poetry nevertheless!

On a more serious note, I recently received a collection of Blake poems. Haven’t picked out a clear favourite, although ‘Memory’ stands out, but perhaps soon. In any case, it’s great descriptive and emotive poetry.

Ithaca by Constantine Cavafy

Two of my favorites: Wild Geese and The Journey, both from Mary Oliver.

I think W H Auden’s “O Where Are You Going” is an excellent fit to your Micro-Adventures book – don’t listen (too much) to the dark imagining of what might happen…

“O where are you going?” said reader to rider, “That valley is fatal when furnaces burn, Yonder’s the midden whose odors will madden, That gap is the grave where the tall return.”

“O do you imagine,” said fearer to farer, “That dusk will delay on your path to the pass, Your diligent looking discover the lacking Your footsteps feel from granite to grass?”

“O what was that bird,” said horror to hearer, “Did you see that shape in the twisted trees? Behind you swiftly the figure comes softly, The spot on your skin is a shocking disease?”

“Out of this house” â€š said rider to reader, “Yours never will” â€š said farer to fearer, “They’re looking for you” â€š said hearer to horror, As he left them there, as he left them there. WH Auden

okay… one more : )

Sleeping in the Forest

I thought the earth remembered me, she took me back so tenderly, arranging her dark skirts, her pockets full of lichens and seeds. I slept as never before, a stone on the river bed, nothing between me and the white fire of the stars but my thoughts, and they floated light as moths among the branches of the perfect trees. All night I heard the small kingdoms breathing around me, the insects, and the birds who do their work in the darkness. All night I rose and fell, as if in water, grappling with a luminous doom. By morning I had vanished at least a dozen times into something better.

Numéro Cinq

Safe journey home: óscar oliva poems & commentary — translated by dylan brennan and keith payne.

I first came across Óscar Oliva’s work a couple of years ago when Keith Payne came to visit me at my house in Cholula. He spoke of Óscar’s poetry with such enthusiasm that, as soon as he and his partner (the wonderful singer, Su Garrido Pombo —listen to her perform one of the poems below) left, I pulled out the massive anthology of Mexican 20th century poetry that sat guiltily on my shelf and went directly to the entry on Oliva. The first two poems intrigued me— El artista (The Artist) and El sufrimiento armado (The Armed Suffering). El artista takes its cue from the famous Velazquez painting Las meninas , in which the artist chooses to place himself within the painting. The speaker of the poem states that his intention is similar to that of the Spanish painter, to become one with his art: ‘How to make myself and this book indivisible?/How to make this poem break free from the yoke of paper?’ In El sufrimiento armado Oliva visits the tomb of Marco Antonio Yon Sosa, a Guatemalan guerrillero killed by Mexican armed forces near the border with Chiapas. In the second half of the poem the speaker returns to his home in Mexico City to read about the event in the local papers. He notes how the minister for defense claims that the Guatemalan guerrilleros had fired first and that: ‘In these conditions…our soldiers will not reply with flowers and embraces.’ Oliva would reply with poetry, with music. From these two initial encounters it was clear to me this was a poet who gave equal importance to social matters as he did to ars poetica , singing for the sake of music. It was also clear that I would read more.

. Óscar Oliva comments on “Behind the wheel of an automobile on the Pan-American Highway from Tuxtla to the City of Mexico”

Writing poetry always constitutes a journey that starts upon the arrival of the first line, which contains within itself the impulse to keep going. Sometimes we travel down these roads in the dark, like St. John of the Cross, and sometimes at great speed like Rimbaud, all in order to remember or imagine we are remembering, different aspects of situations. We were taught all this by the classic Chinese and Japanese poets. Also by Fernando Pessoa and the Provençal troubadours. I have never stopped making that journey, a journey into knowledge, an initiatory journey, one that is never the same—the landscapes change, the towns and cities also change. I and everyone else continue along this wheel that also changes.

Behind the wheel of an automobile on the Pan-American Highway from Tuxtla to the City of Mexico

for Enrique González Rojo

From Tuxtla to the city of Mexico is more than a thousand kilometres more than a million metres more than a hundred million centimetres

and so many more stones, so many more trees that

I can neither measure nor count what I’ve done so many times, at so many kilometres an hour, with the hot breath of wind blowing down the Isthmus, torrential rains barrelling down the Veracruz stretch that threaten to jack the car and drop it in a ditch, I’ve picked up the names of all the bridges, of all the throttled villages buried in the curves and straights of the road that I’ve driven down all the days and all the months of the year, first light, late at night, and at that moment when the evening is a cicada turning back into its primitive shell, spinning back to larva, the exhaustion hooks the mouth, twists the shoulder and down into the back of the foot, and burrows with a spoon deep into the head; I still feel when I’m on the go from one place to another in this dread between life and death, when language and anger pushes you on, and I’m making my way with a pick and a trowel or when I’m sat in a chair or laid between the legs of the one I love, this gearshift, the pulse of the engine pulling up the mountain, heading up into the knotty heart of it all the gentle giddiness on the way back down and the speed that makes us swallow the landscape and our words; the first time I came to Mexico city I didn’t know which way to turn which corner to round, it was like beginning to write, sat to the white sheet elbows on the table alone, shoulders hunched forward waiting for the pistol and the engine rev, the race to be won but you’re the only driver, the page that burned in my hands like the rubbish tips that burned in Santa Cruz Meyehualco, and the trucks and trams that burned in the risings, that screamed hunger, I came down from the attic to campus, books under my arm rolling up spit balls and firing them out of the bus window polluting the city with Kant and Antonio Caso, I dumped my books on the bus and jumped into one of the greasy spoons on Academía St. …………. or a pub then dancing all night in La Perla, later on I’d feel the heat of the woman who had brought me home, a moisture spreading like an expanding universe in a few square metres, in a few cubic metres of air; and I wrote across the city roofs, I spread my reach, my turf I wandered the hideous streets where the people crawled out of work with nothing to eat gougers or thieves who raised their eyes to my shirt and it was like stepping back into the movies back into Buñuel’s The Forgotten, and on those ulcerated streets I saw for the first time carfulls of police, mounted police pick-ups of riot police who closed the streets; the power of the State who charged full tilt swinging batons booting the rubbish bins, shaking up the neighbourhood shooting point blank a blitzkrieg down on our heads, then the silence of Chaplin’s Easy Street and I wake up on the path my eye cut, babbling like a groggy boxer and they’ve stopped the fight in the third on a technical and the howls of the crowd not there, I gathered what was left of my books without a cent in my pockets, and back to my room whistling the tune from The Graduate , to write the poem I lost like so many things you lose; I.D. and women strikes and chewing gum faith and socks; It gets cold in the mountains around Puebla you have to roll the windows up, turn on the heat and slow right down to a regular speed, and later on the sunlight through my bedroom window, she’s coming in to wake me taking off her school uniform lying down on top of me sliding over me kissing each other like something out of the movies, caresses straight out the The tower of lust Gone with the Wind ’s big house, it’s late, it’s late the sunlight tells us, they’ve turned up the lights in the cinema, It was time for a sup and head out across the Zócalo, kiss her goodbye at the door then up Guatemala St., two blocks take a right, back into the new poem back into the dream jaunt, grab some stuff for the street again to listen to the jangle and bounce of the trucks ………… loading and unloading, the travelling salesmen’s banter, the binmen, the schoolkids, hop up on a bus in with the workers the driver has the radio full blast, it’s hard to get to the door, I ring the bell, a red light flashes on the dash, I take a wander up by San Lazaro station, watch a train pass as it pulls itself across the face of the earth a letter on each of the six cars that form the word STRIKE, I measure these things in my pocket against what’s on the street, at the stand I grab an orange juice, the passing railwaymen lift a finger in salute, I salute them too, it’s as if we’re saying reality is in those fingers this train, the orange juice lights up my whole body, I arrive and the five poets are sat around a table someone reads a poem, I watch them: they’re the same age I was when I first met them, …………. I think; they haven’t moved, still as a photograph hands in mid air, pen in the hand, a glass at their elbows, they’re as old as our children are now, it has all passed so fast just like coming down out of the mountains in Oaxaca, where it seems that the road breeds another road where the slightest slip could send me over the edge, where the brakes don’t seem to work, where I’ve lost control of the car, I come back to the photograph and hang it ………… on one of the walls at home, I arrive for the first time in Mexico City, I am just one more shoulder in the crowd marching through, teargas fumes me, derailed trains burnt out at the terminal ripped up tracks and the attack of the police, of the army, of the riot squad all in battle formation, the Zócalo is a rifle butt in the face, there’ll be more battles José Revueltas tells us, the railway workers pass by and lift their fists ………… in salute they walk out of one cell straight into another, back down to the underworld, into their nooks, take note, write all this down, I’m nothing more than a chronicler who has seen his friends fall, who has buried his dead, who has washed in the wind, full of ghosts and contradictions, demands and manifestos, who has patched his back so many times falling in love again and again, watching the future so it’s hard to keep an eye on the telescope lens, denying the future, hating it again, starting over again, in the end starting the journey, setting out from the same place, going the same way, coming down the highway, braking, tooting the horn, the lights change, gearshift, watch the tyres, flick on the wipers, and keep an eye on the gas, barrelling down again till finally I pull in and here I am writing this at the end of the journey, hopeful, hitting the brakes so I don’t run over everything I’ve written or myself. So I can keep on rising and falling.

— Translation by Keith Payne/Audio reading by Ophelia Ellen McCabe

Al volante de un automóvil por la carretera panamericana de Tuxtla a la ciudad de México

A Enrique González Rojo

De Tuxtla a la ciudad de México hay más de mil kilómetros de distancia más de un millón de metros más de cien millones de centímetros

mas las piedras, mas los árboles,

que no se pueden medir, ni contar, que he recorrido tantas veces, a tantos kilómetros por hora, con mucho calor y viento por el Istmo, con lluvias torrenciales por el tramo de Veracruz que tratan de detener el carro, derribarlo en un barranco, que he aprendido los nombres de los puentes, de los pueblos asfixiados, hundidos en las curvas y rectas de la carretera; que he recorrido por distintos días y meses del año, en la madrugada, en la noche, en el momento en que la tarde es una cigarra volviendo a su funda primitiva, saltando al revés, a su condición de ninfa, sintiendo ese cansancio que nos prende de la boca ……… con un anzuelo, que continúa en un hombro, baja hasta el calcañar de los pies, y escarba con una cuchara el cráneo; todavía siento, cuando voy caminando de un lugar a otro, en esa trepidación de vida y muerte a la que nos empuja la gramática o la cólera, de regreso a casa, abriéndome paso con un pico y una pala, o cuando estoy sentado en una silla o cuando acostado entre las piernas de la que amo, ese cambio de velocidades, el esfuerzo del automóvil al subir una montaña, entrar a ese nudo de raíces, el leve mareo al descender y la velocidad que nos hace tragar el paisaje o nuestras palabras; la primera vez que llegué a la ciudad de México no sabía a dónde dirigirme, qué esquina cruzar, era como comenzar un escrito, estar acodado en una mesa frente a un hoja en blanco, solo, con los hombros colgados hacia adelante esperando el disparo que inicia el arranque, la carrera que hay que ganar y donde se es el único competidor, una hoja que ardía en mis manos como a veces arden los tiraderos de basura de Santa Cruz ……… Meyehualco, o como los camiones y tranvías en tiempos de rebelión, que aullaba, que tenía hambre, iba de un cuarto de azotea a la ciudad universitaria, con libros bajo el brazo, haciéndolos pedacitos y tirándolos

por la ventanilla del camión, contaminando más la ciudad con Kant y Antonio Caso, y ya sin ellos me bajaba a la mitad del camino, entraba en una cocina económica de las calles de Academia, o a una cervecería y en la noche a bailar a La Perla, más tarde sentía la humedad de la muchacha que se había acostado conmigo, una humedad que iba creciendo como un universo en expansión en unos cuantos metros cuadrados, en unos cuantos metros cúbicos de aire;

y yo escribía en las bardas de la ciudad, ampliaba mi territorio, mi radio de acción, entraba a calles espantosas donde la gente se arrastraba, desempleados que no tenías para comer, rateros, tal vez criminales que alargaban sus ojos hasta mi camisa, y era como entrar de nuevo al cine a ver Los Olvidados de Luis Buñuel, y en esas calles ulcerosas vi por primera vez carros llenos de policías, y también policías a caballo, granaderos en camiones que cerraban esas calles, parte del poder del Estado, que entraban empujando, golpeando, entraban a paso de carga y arremetían contra todos, tirando los botes de basura, despertando al vecindario, disparando a quemarropa, acometiendo como en un juego de futbol americano y después era el silencio de La Calle de la Paz de Chaplin y yo despertaba tirado en la banqueta, macaneado, con las cejas cortadas, como un boxeador groggy que le han parado la pelea por knock out técnico en el tercer asalto, con la rechifla de un público que no existe, levantaba los pedazos de libros que me habían quedado, sin un quinto en los bolsillos, y regresaba a mi cuarto silbando el mambo de El Estudiante a escribir el poema que se perdió como se pierden tantas cosas, credenciales y mujeres, huelgas y chicles, buena fe y calcetines; con mucho frío por la sierra de Puebla, hay que subir los cristales de las ventanillas, poner la calefacción, descender a una velocidad regular, y luego la claridad entrando por la ventada de mi cuarto, entrando ella a despertarme, quitándose su uniforme de colegiala, echándoseme encima, moviéndose, besándonos como se besan el actor y la actriz en los filmes, acariciándonos en La Torre de Nesle, en la mansión de Lo que el Viento se llevó, ya es tarde, ya es tarde, nos decía la claridad, se hacía la luz en la sala de cine, había que ir a cenar y atravesar de nuevo el zócalo, despedir a la amiga en la puerta de su casa, después subir a la calle de Guatemala, a dos cuadras dar vuelta a la derecha, llegar de nuevo al poema recién comenzando, entrar de nuevo a la expedición del sueño, ir recogiendo muestras de distintos materiales, para bajar de nuevo a la calle al escuchar el ruido de los camiones de carga y descarga, las voces de los vendedores ambulantes, de los recogedores de basura, de los niños que van a la escuela, subir a un camión de pasajeros junto a obreros y obreras, el chofer lleva el radio encendido a todo volumen, es difícil llegar hasta la puerta de bajada del camión, se toca el timbre, se prende un foco rojo al lado del volante, caminar sin rumbo fijo por la estación San Lázaro, ver pasar un tren que a la tierra arrancara su estructura en seis de sus vagones una letra que conforman la palabra H U E L G A esos materiales que llevo en el bolsillo los comparo con los que voy viendo en la calle, llego hasta un puesto de jugos y pido uno de naranja, los ferrocarrileros al pasar levantan el puño y saludan, yo los saludo, parecen decirnos la realidad son estos puños, este tren, el jugo de naranja ilumina todo mi cuerpo, llego al sitio de reunión, los cinco poetas están sentados alrededor de una mesa alguien lee un poema, yo los observo: “tienen la edad que yo tenía cuando los conocí”, pienso; se han quedado inmóviles fijos como en una fotografía en actitud de golpear la mesa, con el lápiz en las manos, con una copa al lado de cada uno, tienen la edad de nuestros hijos, edad que ha pasado vertiginosamente, tal como el descenso por las montañas de Oaxaca, donde parece que la carretera engendra otra carretera, donde el menor descuido puede llevarme al precipicio, donde parece que los frenos no responden, se ha perdido el control del auto, llego hasta la fotografía y la cuelgo en una de las paredes ……… de mi casa, llego por primera vez a la ciudad de México, soy un hombro más de la multitud al dar un paso, gases lacrimógenos me hacen rabiar, trenes descarrilados o incendiados en las terminales, las vías levantadas, y el ataque del ejército, policías y granaderos en formación a paso de batalla, el zócalo reducido a un culatazo en la frente, vendrán otras batallas, nos decía José Revueltas, los ferrocarrileros pasan frente a mí levantan el puño y saludan, salen de una cárcel para entrar en otra, pasan a la ilegalidad, a sus escondrijos, tomo nota, apunto todo esto, no soy más que un cronista que ha visto caer a sus amigos, que ha enterrado a sus muertos, que se ha bañado de viento, lleno de contradicciones y fantasmas, de asperezas y afirmaciones, con la espalda remendada tantas veces, de nuevo amando, avizorando el futuro que es tan difícil retener en el lente del telescopio, negando ese futuro, de nuevo odiando, de nuevo comenzando, en fin iniciando el viaje, partiendo del mismo lugar, dirigiéndome al mismo lugar, descendiendo por la carretera, frenando tocando el claxon, haciendo cambio de luces, cambiando de velocidades, atento al deslizamiento de las llantas, poniendo en acción los limpiadores del parabrisas, vigilando la aguja que marca el contenido del tanque de gasolina, bajando a gran velocidad, en fin hasta llegar al lugar donde estoy sentado escribiendo, al final de todo, esperanzado, frenando bruscamente para no atropellar todo lo que llevo escrito y a mí mismo.

Para continuar ascendiendo y descendiendo.

. Su Garrido Pombo Sings the Poem

Su Garrido Pombo via sugarridopombo.com

Óscar Oliva comments on “ For Pope John Paul II on his arrival in Tuxtla Gutiérrez”

It is a poem of circumstance, one in which I once again proclaim my love for Tuxtla, my hometown. I like to walk around Tuxtla because for walls it has mountains that have hardly moved since I was born. It is also a poem in which I speak of the evil machinations of the State and the Church, how they transform religious faith, with the 30 golden coins from the spotlights of mercenary publicity.

For Pope John Paul II on his arrival in Tuxtla Gutiérrez

In the water’s flow lies its fall voices, faces beloved for having survived rivers upon rivers: ……………………………….. Tuxtla is like amber under pooled waters; so now, you’ll make it to my hometown, Pontifex Maximus, and I would have liked to have seen you with my 1947 eyes.

You will see that sky of almost solid light that there begins, that continues in Guatemala like a wild boar’s head, ………………………………… carried on a shoulder, that can be weighed by hands in all of Central America, so battered by North American imperialism ……………………………….. (that’s what we called it), and on resting your workman’s hands upon my hometown, you’ll hear the fluttering thoughts of Q’uq’umatz.

I don’t really know what your visit will bring, under a sky with no eyelids; it will be astonishing, tongues will mingle, you will stumble, heads will bash against each other, and your word will disseminate, your soul torn to shreds, thousands will photograph you, shoot you in video and film, and I will watch you so far away so close on the telly.

I would have liked to have been there in my doorway ………………………………. to have seen you pass by, but, since many years ago, a child that came running from the backyard, not yet having received the Eucharist, upon opening the door to the street, fell down in a faint. My grandparents, parents, siblings, and I myself, all dead, buried; all together, all shouting …………………….. Goodbye Holy Father! God Bless You!

Now then, I am writing these words down before …………………….. you arrive in Mexico, from where news of your visit breaks …………………………………………… from the TV stations, which we watch between adverts, which dirty ………… your robes upon which they play dice, between political slogans from George Bush to the world ……………………………… from the White House; before you leave Rome, Sir John, Sir Paul, before you open one of the gates of the Vatican Palace; before I can establish that Rome really exists, the Vatican Palace, Tuxtla, because you know very well that all that I’m saying ……………………………………………………………….. is possible, especially between two poets who will not see each other, not now, not ever.

Upon arrival, you will see the trees, that cannot grow ……………………………………………………………….. any longer. You will not see the idols—nobody has seen them—that the Indians ………… hide behind the Catholic images. You will see, just beside the arroyo, Brother Bartolomé de las Casas, and you will kneel before him; the bishop of Chiapas ………………………………. will not know who you are.

I beg you not to lift the stone that trips you up ……………………………….. on your way to Tuxtla, ……………………………….. I do not want the wound to open. In the place from which you’ll speak, you will be able to see the Cañon del Sumidero and the Río Grijalva which carries another river in its depths, and you will feel there are more leaves under the breeze, more amber under the light.

What word will be gathered by those poor who will listen to you, who have survived so many stonings ………………………………………… and prisons?

I don’t know. What I do know is that Christ has not died with them, that he’ll listen to their words, and when you are through, He will return with them to where they live, and upon opening ………………………………. the door of one of those houses, will fall down in a faint.

…………………………………………………… Safe journey home.

—Translation by Dylan Brennan

Al Papa Juan Pablo II para cuando llegue a Tuxtla Gutiérrez

En el manar del agua está la caída, algunas voces, rostros amados porque han sobrevivido ríos sobre ríos: ………………………………………………….. Tuxtla es como el ámbar bajo el agua empozada; en fin, llegará usted a mi pueblo, Sumo Pontífice, y me hubiera gustado verlo con mis ojos de 1947.

Verá el cielo de luz casi sólida que ahí comienza, que continúa en Guatemala como una cabeza de jabalí …………………………………. colgada al hombro, que es una sola pisada de tapir en El Salvador, que puede sopesarse con las manos en toda Centroamérica ahora tan golpeada por el imperialismo norteamericano …………………………………. (así se decía antes), y al posar sus manos de obrero en mi pueblo, escuchará el aleteo y el pensamiento de Gucumatz.

No sé bien cómo será su visita, bajo el sol sin párpados; será impresionante, las lenguas se confundirán, se trastabillará, las cabezas chocarán unas con otras, y su voz será propagada, y su espíritu hecho girones. Miles lo fotografiarán, le tomarán videos y películas. Yo lo veré tan lejos, tan cerca, desde la TV.

Me hubiera gustado estar en la puerta de mi casa ……………………………….. para verlo pasar, pero desde muchos años atrás, un niño que llega corriendo desde el traspatio, que no ha recibido la eucaristía, y al abrir la puerta de la calle, cae desmayado. Mis abuelos, padres y hermanos, yo mismo, todos muertos, enterrados; todos juntos, gritando: ………………………… “¡adiós, Santo Padre!” “¡Dios lo bendiga!”

Ahora bien, estas palabras las estoy escribiendo antes ……………….. de que llegue usted a México, de que se desate …………………………………………. por los canales de televisión ……………….. información sobre su visita, de que lo veamos entre anuncios comerciales, de que ensucien ……… su túnica y de que jueguen sobre ella a los dados, entre consignas políticas de George Bush al mundo ………………. desde la Casa Blanca; antes de que parta de Roma, don Juan, don Pablo, de que abra una de las puertas del Palacio del Vaticano; antes de que yo pueda constatar que existe Roma, el Palacio del Vaticano, Tuxtla, porque bien sabe usted que así como lo estoy diciendo …………………………………………………………………… es posible, más entre dos poetas que no se verán ahora, ni nunca.

Al llegar, verá usted los árboles que ya no podrán ……………………….. crecer más. No verá los ídolos —nadie los ha visto— que los indios ……….. esconden detrás de las imágenes católicas. Verá, junto al arroyo, a Fray Bartolomé de Las Casas, y se arrodillará ante él; el obispo de Chiapas ………………………………… no sabrá quién es usted.

Le ruego no levante la piedra con la que tropezará ………………………. en su camino a Tuxtla, ………………………. no quiero que se le abra la herida. Desde el lugar donde va a hablar, podrá ver el Cañón del Sumidero y al río Grijalva que lleva en sus profundidades a otro río, y sentirá que hay más hojas bajo el aire, más ámbar debajo de la luz.

¿Qué palabra será recogida por esos pobres que lo escucharán, que han sobrevivido a tantas pedradas ………………………………… y cárceles? No sé. Lo que sé es que Cristo no ha muerto con ellos, que estará atento a sus palabras, y cuando usted termine, Él regresará con ellos por donde vinieron, y al abrir …………………… la puerta de cualquier casa, caerá desmayado. ………………………………………… Buen viaje de regreso.

Óscar Oliva comments on “Ballad for the Ayotzinapa Boys”

No, I cannot explain what this is about. A warning cry is nothing more than an open throat. Everyone knows about this atrocious crime, I am nothing more than a troubadour in a land where crime reigns supreme. Nobody is obliged to respond with poetry to these nameless occurrences. Poetry must fly with a freedom that is absolute and when it sounds must do so with a beauty with which, and, for which, we breathe. I do not like so-called political poetry, it too has been corrupted by ideologies. I do believe in rage in poetry. Poetry changes nothing, nor is change its function. It is only to be written and, from time to time, sung. For this reason I like for my poems to be sung, in other languages, other intonations, by popular artists.

Ballad for the Ayotzinapa Boys

There are no limits for this country of crime. There is no name for this country of crime. There is no country with names for this crime. There are no crimes for this country of crime.

Tell me, in what faraway land will they be found?

To Juvenal I’ll add François Villon to compose this ballad, I’ll ask other troubadours

to lend an interrogative refrain: where, in which crimeless country are those boys who only just …………. stripped naked for love?

Help me run along a river that runs with so much strength.

Where are they? Encapsulated in which black house?

You won’t find them in the white house, nobody lives there anymore. The time of new Sirens will come, of new sorcery, and the lily whiteness will become a yellow shine

or a black lily at the whims of a new owner, a new Circe of deceit, amongst lions and wolves of the same woods.

………… Our Lady of the Sorrows, where are they?

Where are the 43 tears of yesterday afternoon?

We won’t find out tomorrow where they are, nor in the coming mornings or afternoons where they are, nor in a whole year, in which we cannot but return …………………………………………. right back to this refrain: Where again are the Ayotzinapa boys!?

There are no limits. There are no names. There is no country. There are no crimes.

They run with so much strength.

……………………………… Tuxtla, November, 2014.

— Translation by Dylan Brennan

Balada por los muchachos de Ayotzinapa

No hay límites para el país del crimen. No hay nombre para el país del crimen. No hay país con nombres del crimen. No hay crímenes para el país del crimen.

¿Díganme, en qué país lejano hallarlos?

A Décimo Junio Juvenal agrego a François Villon para componer esta balada, y pido a otros cantores añadan otro estribillo interrogativo: ¿dónde, en qué país sin crímenes están los muchachos que apenas ………. se habían desnudado al amor?

Ayúdenme a correr junto a un río que corre con demasiada fuerza.

¿En dónde están, en qué casa negra, encapsulados?

En la casa blanca no están, ahí ya no habita nadie. Llegará el tiempo de otras sirenas, de otros sortilegios, y la blancura como lirio será un resplandor amarillo o un lirio negro al capricho de otra dueña, otra Circe de engaño, entre leones y lobos del mismo bosque.

……… ¿Dónde están, Madre Dolorosa?

¿Dónde están las 43 lágrimas de ayer por la tarde?

No vamos a averiguar en esta mañana dónde están, ni en las siguientes mañanas y tardes dónde están, ni en todo el año, que a este estribillo no nos lleve: ¡Mas dónde están los muchachos de Ayotzinapa!

No hay límites. No hay nombres. No hay país. No hay crímenes.

Corren con demasiada fuerza. ………………………………….. Noviembre/ 2014

Óscar Oliva comments on “ A Ballad for François Hollande”

I did send this poem to Hollande. However, the carrier pigeon never made it to his window. Either that or it was devoured by the waters over which it crossed. Certainly Hollande forgot about Boris Vian’s song, one that he would have listened to with excitement in his youth. That was my reason for paraphrasing him, to remember the poet and his long trek along the paths of the Provençal troubadours.

A Ballad for François Hollande

Monsieur le président take this ballad as I awaken ‘The Deserter’ …………. by Boris Vian

don’t be surprised if a messenger pigeon arrives at your window – there’s all sorts falling from the Cloud

I see you’re busy making war was I born to the world for no more than this?

as down the French avenues sings Boris Vian don’t go to war, we didn’t come here to kill

my mother suffered when I left when they strafed the bus I was on I was reading Guillaume de Poitiers’ poem …………………….. about I don’t know what about nothing

you and the terrorists you and the terror …………………………………………. let us dream the three dreams of Decartes

…………………………………………. let us go into the cafes the arenas the football stadiums I’m no member of either sleeping or active cell

I’m better off in Agnes’ dream like Guillaume who dreams as he sleeps …………. on his horse

don’t make war abroad don’t make war at home

I’m a deserter sings Boris Vian …………. don’t obey them don’t go to war tell your police Mr. President that I am unarmed on the road to peace I’ve slipped off my electronic tag Boris Vian recorded ‘The Deserter’ the same day as his country’s defeat at Diem-Bien-Phu

all down the Aquitaine roads about I don’t know what about nothing but early and almost unseen

I slip this ballad through your window.

–Translation by Keith Payne

Balada para François Hollande

Monsieur le président le mando esta balada paráfrasis de “El desertor” …………. de Boris Vian

no tendría nada de extraño que una paloma mensajera llegara a su ventana la nube cibernética da sorpresas

lo veo tan ocupado en hacer la guerra ¿vino a este mundo nada más para eso?

por los caminos de Francia Boris Vian canta no vayan a la guerra no venimos a la vida para matar

mi madre sufrió tanto cuando me fui a otro país cuando ametrallaron el autobús donde viajaba leía el poema de Guillermo de Poitiers sobre no ………………………… sé qué sobre nada

usted y los terroristas usted y el terror ……………………………………. déjennos tener los tres sueños de Descartes

……………………………………. dejénnos entrar a las cafeterías a las salas de conciertos a los estadios de futbol no pertenezco a ninguna célula dormida o activa

mejor entro al sueño de Agnes como Guillermo que la sueña porque duerme ……… sobre su caballo

no haga la guerra en casa ajena ni en su propia casa

soy un desertor Boris Vian canta ………. no obedezcan no vayan a la guerra dígale a sus policías señor presidente que no llevo armas camino desarmado me quito el dispositivo electrónico el brazalete de geolocalización Boris Vian grabó “El desertor” el mismo día de la derrota de su país en Diem-Bien-Phu

por los caminos de Aquitania sobre no sé qué sobre nada muy temprano casi invisible

dejo esta balada en su ventana

Óscar Oliva: Final words

I have not stopped writing. I no longer can stop. I have finished a new book, LASCAS, which is the continuation of this long race in which we all take part. It is also a journey through the mountains of Chiapas, alongside my grandparents and great-grandparents, alongside Li-Po, Rubén Darío, Juan de la Encina and others who have gazed upon the changing skies. Sturdy horsemen under torrential rains.

— Óscar Oliva, Dylan Brennan, & Keith Payne

. Óscar Oliva was born in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas, on 5 January 1937. He belonged to the group of poets known as La Espiga Amotinada, encouraged by the Catalan poet Agustí Bartra. He has published extensively since the appearance of La Voz Desbocada in 1960 and has been widely recognized for his work as a cultural promoter. He has been honoured repeatedly for his work, winning an array of prizes including the Premio Nacional de Poesía Aguascalientes (1971), Premio de Poesía Ciudad de México (1981), Medalla Rosario Castellanos (1990) and the Premio Internacional de Poesía Ramón López Velarde (2013). In addition to his literary work, Óscar was also a member of the Comisión Nacional de Intermediación (CONAI), between the Ejercito Zapatista de la Liberación Nacional (EZLN) and the Mexican government, eventually leading to the establishment of autonomous, indigenous communities in his home state of Chiapas.

Keith Payne is the Ireland Chair of Poety Bursary Award winner 2015-2016. His collection Broken Hill (Lapwing Publications, 2015) will be followed by Six Galician Poets (Arc Publications) in 2016.

Dylan Brennan is an Irish writer currently based in Mexico. His poetry, essays and memoirs have been published in a range of international journals, in English and Spanish. His debut poetry collection, Blood Oranges , for which he received the runner-up prize in the Patrick Kavanagh Award, is available now from The Dreadful Press . Twitter: @ DylanJBrennan

Add comments
2016 , NC Magazine , Poetry , Translation , Vol. VII, No. 4, April 2016

One Response to “Safe Journey Home: Óscar Oliva Poems & Commentary — Translated by Dylan Brennan and Keith Payne”

Brilliant! What a great piece. Thanks to all concerned.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Barbara Eknoian lives in La Mirada, California with her extended family, daughter, son, and grandchildren. She is the author of four novels, two poetry books, and a collection of short stories--most of which offer entertaining details about growing up New Jersey. Barbara has attended Donna Hilbert's poetry workshop in Long Beach since its inception, and her fellow workshop poets are like family.

Login to "Poems & Quotes"

or sign in with e-mail

Don't have an account? Register Here!

Safe journey

by kelly tavern Mar 29, 2008 category : Life, society / meaning of life

Did You Like This Poem?

Latest comments.

by Dancing Rivers

by Ben Pickard

More Poems By kelly tavern

Sun rises ( 5 )
I gathered in time ( 1 )
Nightmare ( 1 )
How does it feel? ( 1 )
Demons ( 3 )

100+ Happy Journey Wishes – Have a Safe Journey

Journeys are exciting because they bring out the unexpected and the unpredictable! However, this aspect of the journey also poses safety concerns for the traveler. A successful journey is 40% preparation and 60% luck, so it is essential to send happy journey wishes and prayers before embarking on a trip. If your significant other, lover, family member, friend, or colleague is planning to take a journey, make sure to send your best wishes for a safe and enjoyable trip. Take a look at the following happy journey wishes and choose the one that suits you best!

Happy Journey Wishes

Happy Journey to you! May you have a beautiful time. Hope you have a worthy traveling experience.

My best wishes to you on your journey! Can’t wait to hear all the tales and stories from your trip.

May you have a lot of fun on the way. May this journey bring peace to your mind and joy to your heart. Have a happy and safe journey!

May this journey of yours be full of extraordinary memories and sweet moments. I wish you a safe journey and safe return.

Wishing you a wonderful journey! Hope you have the best time of your life. Nothing beats the feeling of a glorious trip.

I hope you have an amazing trip. Make sure to have the most fun and enjoy every moment. Have a safe journey and take care!

May this journey brings you new opportunities and things to look forward to. Good luck and travel safe.

I hope to see you safe and sound when you finally return. Till then, enjoy everything that comes in your way. Have a safe journey!

Sweetheart, I’ll be counting days till you return to me but till then, have fun to the fullest! Wishing you an amazing journey and trip ahead!

May the blessing of God be with you on this journey! Wishing you a safe and sound journey!

Have a happy journey. May you don’t have to face any trouble and have a safe and wholesome journey. Rooting for you.

Best wishes for the journey. Stay safe and enjoy your break. Have a safe flight!

I am really happy that you are finally taking this journey. May all things work in your favor. Have a safe journey.

You deserved this long-awaited vacation, so I pray that everything goes smoothly during the journey! Cherish your time and travel safe, sweetheart!

May your voyage be as exciting and eye-opening as ever! I’ll be with you all the time in mind and soul! Be safe and travel well!

I pray that God surrounds you with his love and care during the entire journey. I hope the journey will go well and you’ll return home safely! I wish you have a happy and safe journey!

Hope this journey will treat you well and give you the best experience. Bon Voyage!

Wish you a happy journey. May the road hit you well and drop you smoothly to your destination.

Wishing you the happiest journey! Be in good health and mind!

Don’t be nervous about riding an airplane because it will take you to your destination in no time! Take care and have a safe flight!

I hope this journey will be a very meaningful and memorable one for you. Have a safe ride and enjoy every moment! I’ll miss you, babe!

May you be safe wherever you are! Enjoy the ride! Happy Journey!

I already started missing you so much but I want you to have the best experience through this journey. Have a safe and enjoyable trip, love!

Bon voyage! Have a safe and enjoyable journey ahead.

Wishing you a safe and stress-free journey. Happy traveling!

I hope this journey will be the most memorable adventure of your life. All I wish is that voyage be unimpeded and unhampered. Good luck!

I am super excited for your journey ahead, but your safety is important to me too! May you be in good health and have the safest ride!

Safe Journey Wishes

Have fun on this journey, but be safe! Wishing you a safe travel and return!

You needed this vacation, and I’m elated that you are finally getting a trip! Safe journey!

Discover the unknown on your way. See the unseen and feel the awesomeness of this journey. Have a safe journey dear. All the best wishes for you!

May your journey be full of new lessons and new experiences. I hope that you’ll land safely at your destination and return back to us again with good health and good memories.

Sending you positive vibes for a safe journey ahead. Enjoy every moment of your trip, my dear friend.

Have a safe trip. I wish you face no problem on this journey. May this journey be a pleasant experience for you. Let me know once you have reached there.

I hope you have prepared yourself well for the journey. I’ll be waiting for you until you return safely. Looking forward to hearing your experiences on the way!

May your journey be full of the best experiences. May you enjoy every bit of it on the way and reach your destination safely. All the best wishes to you!

Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey, my best friend! May you have the best time of your life, explore new cultures, and create wonderful stories to tell.

I’ll be praying each and moment until you get there safely. I am already waiting to see the pictures of this trip of yours. Have a wonderful trip!

Good luck dear! Hope you have an amazing time and hope you make millions of amazing memories. I’m looking forward to hearing the stories of your wonderful journey. Have a happy and safe journey!

Go in the way of safety, and be back in the way of love. I wish you have a happy and Safe Journey, hoping to see you lovely and safe again soon.

Life is a journey. Don’t imprison yourself in a rut. Break free and travel. Wander as if you’re lost. It’s the only way to discover yourself. Have a safe journey!

Hey, you are off to a holiday. So, I thought I must wish you this day. Enjoy the days ahead without any stress. As I wish you all the best for a safe journey and God bless!

Happy Journey Message To a Friend

Just wanted to wish you a safe and happy journey. Hope you will enjoy it as much as you are excited about it.

I wish I was with you right now because I really wanted to be a part of this wonderful trip. But all the best wishes to you. Maybe next time, I’ll be your companion!

May your journey be eye-opening! May you have new and profound experiences, and may you arrive and depart in a safe manner!

Take in every moment of your journey, and stay safe throughout. I can’t wait to hear all of it when you return!

Wishing you a journey filled with joy, happiness, and, most importantly, safety. Best wishes for travelling abroad, my friend!

I hope this trip will be the best trip of your life. Take good care of yourself the whole time and never forget to take as many pictures as you can! Best of luck!

Wishing for you to enjoy every minute of the upcoming wholesome journey, best friend. Do not forget to bring goodies for me.

Hope you will be crazy on this trip enough to forget about all your worries. Have a happy and safe journey.

Be safe and have the time of your life, mate. Please be careful and text me when you reach. Love yaa.

Hope you have one hell of a ride and have the best time of your life on this journey. Eagerly waiting to hear about your trip!

Although I’m missing you right now, I wish all the best for you. I really hope you’ll return with a lot of awesome memories. Have an enjoyable trip!

Have a pleasant travel, mate! You will be missed here!

I’ll be waiting till you return safely with some unbelievable stories from your trip. Till then, enjoy every moment of it with your companions. Have a happy trip!

My friend, therapy is expensive but traveling is not! So make the best out of this journey and heal your mind and soul. Bon voyage!

Also Read: Farewell Message To A Friend Going Abroad

Happy Journey My Love

My love, have a safe journey and take care.

Best wishes for your journey, babe. Hope you will have an adventurous one.

Stay safe and enjoy your journey, hone. I’m already started missing you. Hope you are missing me too.

Sorry, I can’t make it. If I could I would go with you. I hope you will enjoy this trip. Don’t worry about me, take care of yourself and travel safely.

I wish you a safe journey my love. Create lots of memory on your way.

Once you reach the destination, let me know, love. Hope you have a great journey.

I’m sending my love and support your way as you go off on this adventure. I pray that your journey is smooth, that you are surrounded by love and safety, and that you return to me unscathed and unharmed.

Hope you have a safe journey and please take care of yourself. Already missing you, baby!

Wishing you a happy journey, my love. Enjoy what the journey has to offer you and be yourself- and enjoy every bit.

You will surely look flawless throughout the journey, I know. Have a safe one, darling.

Wishing you health, happiness, and a spirit of adventure on your travels. I hope you have a wonderful time and come back to me with stories to tell about all the amazing things that happened on your trip.

Safe Journey Wishes For Him

Explore everything around you and make the best of this trip. I’m already missing you, but having you back safely will be my biggest happiness. Have a safe journey!

I may not be with you this time, but my prayers are always with you. They’ll protect you and keep you safe wherever you are. Have a pleasant journey and get back to me safely!

My best wishes are always with you. Don’t worry too much about me. My biggest pleasure will be to Know you are happy and enjoying the journey. Have a safe journey, dear husband!

Bon voyage to you, my dear hubby. I’m happy that you’ve got this huge opportunity to be a part of this awesome journey. All I wish is that you get there safely and return back to me safely!

Hope you have a safe flight and the landing won’t be that troublesome. Love you, husband.

The journey will be one of a kind and I will miss it. Have a safe one. Love you to the moon and back.

May this journey be full of positivity and memories that will last for a long time. Wishing to see you soon, lover.

I hope you take this chance to regenerate your energy and cleanse your body and mind from all the stress! Wishing you the happiest journey ahead!

Every journey creates a unique experience for life, so I hope this one will count as one too. Be safe and travel well!

It’s hard to bid farewell to you, but seeing your excited face makes me giddy inside too! May you have a safe and perfect journey, my sweet boyfriend!

Happy Journey Wishes To Colleague/Boss

Dear Boss, hope this journey will be fruitful results and make your journey valuable. Have a safe one.

Accept my heartiest wish for you and your family. I hope you are having a good time. All the best for the journey. Enjoy it to the fullest!

Wish you a successful journey and a safe landing. Hope it will be a memorable one, boss.

The entire crew will miss you a lot. But nothing can make us happier than having you back safely and in good health. Have a safe journey!

It’s time for you to give your body and mind some peace. This journey is so important for you because it is going to give you relief from the monotony of work.

Dear Boss, you have always been the biggest inspiration in my life. Although I’ll miss you for a couple of days, I really wish that you have a great journey this time.

You needed a break more than anyone else. I’m so happy that you’ll finally have it. I hope you’ll have a good time with your family. Have an incredibly awesome journey!

Hope this journey brings your wishes to come true and live up to their value. Best wishes.

Read: Vacation Messages For Boss

Happy Journey Wishes For Couple

Try to make this journey an incredible experience for each other. Live every moment of it and make sure the journey is spent in the most romantic way possible!

Sometimes a bit of adventure can greatly spice up your married life. I hope you two will have a great time together. Have a safe journey!

There is no better way of getting rid of the monotony of life than going on a little trip with your partner. I wish you all the happy moments!

May your journey be joyous and meaningful. See you later!

May you two have the greatest adventure of your life. May this journey give you pleasure and bring peace to your mind. Have a wonderful journey!

It’s a great time to go on a vacation with your loved ones. I hope you’ll return with a lot of sweet memories. Have a safe and enjoyable journey together!

I wish you a tremendous time on your journey. I hope you are safe and sound and have the best time on your trip.

Safe Journey Prayers

May God bless you and all the travelers. Have a safe and blissful journey.

Hope God will look over you and keep you safe in this journey. Have a blissful time.

I prayed to Lord for keeping you safe throughout the journey. Believe in Him and have a great time.

I pray the roads are kind to you on your travel! Have a safe journey, dear! May the Lord take care of you on this trip!

May God got stored good things on this journey for you just like you are wishing for. Sending my best wishes.

Recite some verses from the Holy Book before the journey and ask forgiveness from God. Have a blessed and safe flight.

Hope the sky will be clear and blue for you, do not worry. Let’s say a prayer for your safe and happy trip.

Have a Safe flight

May the journey fill your heart with peace and happiness. Have a safe flight. God bless!

I wish you well. As you step into the plane. Be rest assured that the angels have also stepped in to protect you. Have a safe flight!

May you discover beautiful things as you fly across the world on a plane with wings. May you have experiences that change your thinking as you trot across too far of lands while traveling. Have a good flight.

I wish you a journey free of turbulence, An atmosphere so clear and not foggy. I wish you safety as you go and come back; a safe journey to you.

The wings of your airplane may be big, but the ones of your mind are bigger. Wishing you have a safe flight and a happy journey ahead!

No matter how high you go, No matter how turbulent up there it may be, I wish you a safe flight, like ever before. Take care .

Once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward for there you have been and there you will always long to return.

May your experience be profound, may God guide you all on the journey. May you be filled with sweet stories as you journey down to meet us. Have a safe flight back home .

You will still be taught how to use the life jacket, But may you have no cause to be forced to use it. This shall be a journey that is full of merriment. Have a safe flight dear.

Bon Voyage, my darling. I wish you the best as you go on this journey. I wish you a safe landing too. Stay lovely and great as ever.

Happy Journey Quotes

“Sometimes it’s the journey that teaches you a lot about your destination.” – Drake

“Wherever you go, go with all your heart.” – Confucius

“Stop worrying about the potholes in the road and enjoy the journey.” – Babs Hoffman

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu

“Some people say traveling makes you wise. Some people say traveling makes you humble. I say, don’t think and just travel. Bon voyage.”

“Wishing you a delightful journey! May you have the once-in-a-lifetime experience and remember to tell me about it. Stay safe and enjoy!”

“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all” – Helen Keller

“It is good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters, in the end.” – Ursula K. Le Guin

Get lost, run out of money, and do crazy things – these are the memories from your travels that will last a lifetime. But make sure you travel safe and take care of yourself!

Wishing a wonderful friend, a memorable voyage! May your route there be unimpeded! May only good things happen in your travels!

I am hoping to see a more cheerful, fun, happy, calm, and chirpy version of you when you get back from your trip because — what the heck, you are going to Ibiza! Bon voyage, party hard.

“Every day is a journey, and the journey itself is home.” – Matsuo Basho

So many things to meet on the way when we travel; some are loads of goodies while some are bad. I wave the bad ones for you and wish you the goodies. Have a safe journey.

“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Saint Augustine

Related: Business Trip Wishes

Travelling is as adventurous as ever, but many people feel nervous before taking a long journey or setting for a new destination. It is completely okay to feel restless during trips, as one has to adjust his body and mind to adverse situations. Be it by air, road, or sea; a journey may bring out unanticipated occurrences at any time. But with a bit of luck and good wishes from close ones, a journey can become truly enjoyable and worthwhile! Sending happy journey wishes and happy journey quotes to a traveler is a very thoughtful way of expressing love and care. These messages are enough to make the traveler feel excited and hopeful about his trip, so go through the sample section above and find one for yourself!

Safe Flight Wishes - Have a Safe Flight
Safe Delivery Wishes and Prayers For a Safe Labor
Good Luck On Your New Journey Wishes and Quotes
100+ Romantic Love Quotes For Her or Him
100+ Farewell Cake Messages and Ideas

8 Thoughtful Irish Travel Blessings (They’ll Love)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: October 27, 2023

8 Thoughtful Irish Travel Blessings (They’ll Love)

Irish travel blessings can be a great way to wish someone off on a new adventure.

You’ll most commonly see them written in cards or in text/Whatsapp messages and they add a dash of ‘Irishness’ to your well wishes.

They tend to be either reasonably formal or very lighthearted, with the latter often used during toasts .

Below, you’ll find our favourite Irish blessings for safe travels. Dive on in!

Table of Contents

Our favourite Irish travel blessings

Photos via Shutterstock

It’s worth keeping in mind that many Irish travel sayings online aren’t actually Irish /have no link to Ireland.

Below, you’ll find some Irish travel blessings that have a strong link to Ireland . Enjoy!

1. To an easy journey

Few traditional Irish travel blessings are as famous as the mighty ‘ May the road rise to meet you ‘ .

Although you’ll often see this one amongst Irish wedding blessings , the verse above focuses solely on wishing the listener/reader an easy journey.

Few Irish blessings for safe travels will spark nostalgia like this one.

“ May the road rise up to meet you.

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face,

the rains fall soft upon your fields,

and until we meet again,

may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”

2. Keep in mind

One of the more popular Irish travel blessings, this next one is perfect for a farewell card for a friend or acquaintance that’s off on a new adventure.

You’ll also see it crop up in our Irish drinking toasts as it’s suitable for going away parties also.

“May you have the hindsight to know where you’ve been ,

The foresight to know where you are going,

And the insight to know when you have gone too far .”

3. To good fortune

Although the term ‘ the Luck of the Irish ‘ comes from negative beginnings, it’s use here is acceptable.

Like most Irish blessings for safe travels, this one can be used to wish good luck and happiness to a person off on an adventure.

“May the luck of the Irish , Lead to happiest heights.

And the highway you travel, Be lined with green lights.

Wherever you go and whatever you do , May the luck of the Irish be there with you.”

4. To happiness

Next up is one of the shorter Irish blessings for safe travels and it’s steeped in meaning . It uses opposites to convey its message and tends to hook the listener from start to finish.

This one wishes a person that is at the beginning of a journey an easy path. It’s for that reason that it’s also often used as an Irish baby blessing.

“May you be poor in misfortune ,

Rich in Irish blessings, Slow to make enemies,

Quick to make friends , But rich or poor, quick or slow,

May you know nothing but, Happiness from this day forward.”

5. Green be the grass

This is another of several short Irish prayers for safe travel that tends to be used during wedding ceremonies. It’s also a popular Irish birthday blessing .

Short and sweet, it gets to-the-point from the get-go and it’s easy to recite.

“May green be the grass you walk on,

May blue be the skies above you,

That pure be the joys that surround you,

May true be the hearts that love you.”

6. Well wishes

Another good option for those of you looking for short Irish blessings for travels, this one can be used in a variety of manners .

You’ll regularly hear it used as a wedding reading along with several other short Irish wishes.

“May God give you… For every storm, a rainbow ,

For every tear, a smile, For every care, a promise,

And a blessing in each trial . For every problem life sends,

A faithful friend to share, For every sigh, a sweet song,

And an answer for each prayer .”

7. May the hand of a friend

Next is one of the more popular Irish travel sayings that follows the prosperity theme from start to finish.

You could also use this for a retirement toast or as part of a reading, if you like.

“May you always have work for your hands to do .

May your pockets hold always a coin or two.

May the sun shine bright on your windowpane .

May the rainbow be certain to follow each rain.

May the hand of a friend always be near you.

And may God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you.”

14. Lucky stars above you

Many of the most popular Irish blessings for safe travels revolve around a theme of ‘luck’, and this one is no different.

It’s also a good one to pop into a congratulations card for someone that’s had a baby as it is a thoughtful wish for the newborn at the beginning of their life.

“ Lucky stars above you, Sunshine on your way,

Many friends to love you, Joy in work and play.

Laughter to outweigh each care , In your heart a song,

And gladness waiting everywhere, All your whole life long.”

What Irish blessings for safe travels have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out some brilliant Irish sayings for safe travel from the guide above.

If you have any Irish travel blessings that you’d like to recommend, let me know in the comments below and I’ll check it out!

Or, if you’d like to indulge in some more ‘Irishness’ , hop into our guides to Irish slang , Irish jokes , Irish proverbs and funny Irish sayings .

FAQs about Irish prayers for safe travels

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What are some funny Irish sayings for safe travels?’ to ‘Which are the most meaningful?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What is the traditional Irish blessing for travel?

The most traditional Irish prayer for safe travels is: “May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, the rains fall soft upon your fields, and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”

What is the Irish saying for good journey?

If you don’t fancy the Irish travel sayings above, wish them ‘Go dté tú slán’, which means safe journey in Irish.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

IMAGES

26 Perfect Safe Journey Quotes to Wish Your Traveller Well
50 Safe Journey Wishes to Inspire the Best Flights and Road Trips
Safe Journey Quotes: 65 Creative & Meaningful Messages
Safe Journey My Love.
Safe Journey Home
The Safe Journey Poem by Francis Omariba

VIDEO

A Journey into Dreamland
safe journey🚂🚃 Reaction video ikravlogdaily #emotional #motivation #comedy #funny #sad #journey

COMMENTS

10 of the Best Poems about Journeys
It is mentioned that they are fleeing England because of 'prelates' rage', namely religious persecution - so 'Bermudas' is a poem about undertaking a difficult journey to find a new place where a community of people can start afresh. Samuel Taylor Coleridge, The Rime of the Ancient Mariner. The bright-eyed Mariner.
18 Poems About Travel to Inspire Your Traveler's Soul to See the World
Through the evocative power of poetry, let us embark on a journey of inspiration and discovery, as these poems transport us to distant lands, stoke the flames of wanderlust, and awaken the traveler within. So pack your bags, open your heart to the allure of the unknown, and let these verses guide you to see the world with new eyes. Welcome to Poems About Travel to Inspire Your Traveler's Soul.
10 Beautiful Travel Poems For The Adventurer In You
A Travel Poem For The Girl With Itchy Feet. She lapped. against the shore, restless like. the sea, ready. for any adventure, that blew along her way - Atticus. A Travel Poem For The One On A Journey. Any Journey. Afoot and light-hearted I take to the open road, Healthy, free, the world before me, The long brown path before me leading me ...
25 Inspiring Poems about Adventure
Oliver Runner's poem about adventure captures so much of what drives every traveler. The sense of untethered wandering, free to go where the road may lead. As long as we're treading new ground and experiencing new places, we're at our happiest. 4. For the Traveller - John O'Donohue.
Exploring Safety Through Short Poems
By being vigilant and aware, we can navigate our journey through life safely. 5. "Safe Words" Words of kindness Healing hearts with care A fortress of peace Safe words, a refuge we share. This poem explores the safety found in the power of words. It emphasizes the ability of kind and comforting words to create a safe haven for those in need.
Safe Journey Quotes: 65 Creative & Meaningful Messages
These romantic quotes can help you convey your feelings while wishing your loved one a safe journey. "How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.". - A.A. Milne (Winnie-the-Pooh) "Distance means so little when someone means so much.". - Unknown.
Poetry About Travel: 21 Most Inspiring Travel Poems
Poetry About Travel: The Most Beautiful Travel Poems Backwaters of Alleppey in the south of India 1. The Farewell by Kahlil Gibran. Even though the poetry about travel in this list is in no particular order, the first poem I had to think of was The Farewell by Kahlil Gibran (1883-1931). This beautiful poem can be found in Gibran's book The Prophet, which is one of the most translated books ...
7 Poems That Will Inspire You To Travel
If I seek a lovelier part, Where I travel goes my heart; Where I stray my thought must go; With me wanders my desire. Best to sit and watch the snow, Turn the lock, and poke the fire. Tags: Dorothy Parker, Du Fu, Jerry Leon, Khalil Gibran, Li Bai, poem, quotes, Robert Frost, travel poem, travel quote, Walt Whitman.
Poems about Travel
My sixteenth …. " Window " by Carl Sandburg. Night from a railroad car window …. " Crostatas " by Charlie Smith. in rome I got down among the weeds and tiny perfumed …. " Travel " by Robert Louis Stevenson. I should like to rise and go …. browse more poems about travel. browse more poems about vacations.
The Most Inspiring Travel Poems
Travel Poem (Untitled) We're all wayfaring travellers, Trudging down our separate roads, Hoping, wishing, praying, Someone will come to share our load, There's sunburn on our shoulders, And there are blisters on our feet, We brave the wildest blizzards, And the scorching summer heat,
16 Best Poems About Travel and Life
Table of Contents. If You Were in Cairo by Simon Constam. Viaggiate by Gio Evan. Consolation by Billy Collins. Dislocation by Simon Constam. Learning to Travel by Julene Tripp Weaver. Majorca by John Cooper Clarke. Questions of Travel by Elizabeth Bishop. For the Traveler by John O'Donohue.
The best poems on travel
A clear, cold day with a nipping air, Tall, bare trees to run on beside me, A heart that is light and free from care. Then let me go! - I care not whither. My feet may lead, for my spirit shall be. Free as the brook that flows to the river, Free as the river that flows to the sea. Olive Runner.
10 Awesome Poems About the Journey of Life
Cease the noise, let the quiet increase. In the forest of life, lessons are learned, Earned in the tranquility for which we yearned. Life, a journey through a forest's maze, A gaze into nature's mysterious ways. In the woods, we wander and explore, More of life's secrets, in its core. 7.
11 Travel-Themed Poems That Will Have You Packing Your Bags
Rita sure does in her poem "Vacation", which, if I had to take a guess, was probably written in an airport terminal while she was ... sixty-line-plus poem primarily focuses on the narrator's documentation of the many egrets she's spotted while on her journey, contrasting them against the landscapes she's spied them occupying. 10. Riding Alone ...
Poems about Journey
Journey poems may depict physical travels, introspective adventures, or pursuing a higher purpose. They delve into the challenges, revelations, and personal transformations experienced along the way. These poems invite readers to embrace the uncertainties of life's journey, finding meaning in the process rather than just the destination. ...
11 Life Journey Poems to Encourage You
Poet: Catherine Pulsifer. Looking around the world, big and small, Every one of us is on a journey to help all. A purpose to fulfill, a role to play in society. An opportunity to excel, not for anxiety! We have special gifts, each one of us; Our life is truly a precious trust! On life's journey find love and grace;
Ten Great Poems of Journeys
You can re-read them, and they also make you think. Here are 10 of my favourite poems of journeys. I'mll put one up in full on the site each Sunday for the next 10 weeks. - Ulysses: Alfred, Lord Tennyson. - Sea-Fever: John Masefield. - Poetry of Departures: Philip Larkin. - The Bright Field: RS Thomas. - To an English Friend in ...
Safe Journey Home: Óscar Oliva Poems & Commentary --- Translated by
Writing poetry always constitutes a journey that starts upon the arrival of the first line, which contains within itself the impulse to keep going. Sometimes we travel down these roads in the dark, like St. John of the Cross, and sometimes at great speed like Rimbaud, all in order to remember or imagine we are remembering, different aspects of ...
Quotes and Sayings to Wish Someone a Safe & Happy Journey
Best wishes for a safe, happy, and healthy journey! May you have a safe journey, and may the Almighty protect you from all evils and devils. Live in those moments of beauty, those moments of grandeur, and take the path before you. There is a certain magic in those little moments, standing by the sea, staring down from the top of a mountain.
Safe Journey by Barbara Eknoian
We drive north on the highway heading for Reno. My husband urges me to put my seat back to rest. I close my eyes and feel my body sway gently side to side with the tires spinning against grooved pavement. The rocking motion transports me back to my father's 1950 powder blue Packard. We are going south to Miami. My baby brother is asleep on the back seat scrunched up against Robbie, and I am ...
Poem : Safe journey
Safe journey. by kelly tavern Mar 29, 2008 category : Life, society / meaning of life. I stand here alone in front of you all I stand here while you beat me ... I don't like this poem, sorry I really don't want to offend you, especially if this came from your heart, but I don't like it at all. Honestly this isn't a type of poems in which I ...
100+ Happy Journey Wishes
Have a happy and safe journey! Go in the way of safety, and be back in the way of love. I wish you have a happy and Safe Journey, hoping to see you lovely and safe again soon. Life is a journey. Don't imprison yourself in a rut. Break free and travel. Wander as if you're lost. It's the only way to discover yourself. Have a safe journey!
8 Thoughtful Irish Travel Blessings (They'll Love)
Few Irish blessings for safe travels will spark nostalgia like this one. "May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, the rains fall soft upon your fields, and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.". 2. Keep in mind.

18 Poems About Travel to Inspire Your Traveler’s Soul to See the World

The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost

Against the Shore by Atticus

The Opportune Moment by Sheenagh Pugh

A Prayer for Travelers by Anon

Song of the Open Road by Walt Whitman

Travel by Edna St. Vincent Millay

On the World by Francis Quarles

Die Slowly by Martha Medeiros

If Once You Have Slept on an Island by Rachel Field

The Moment by Margaret Atwood

Freedom by Olive Runner

Poem About Travel by Drewniverses

Traveling by Nayyirah Waheed

P.S. I Love You by H. Jackson Brown

For the Traveler by John O’Donohue

Why Do I Travel? Author Unknown

Travel by Robert Louis Stevenson

Night Traveler by Deepa Thomas

More Posts with Quotes and Captions

Did You Find Poems About Travel Useful?

Now, It Is Your Turn, I Would Like to Hear Back from You!

Share via Email

218 Beautiful LAKE CAPTIONS and QUOTES to Accompany Your Lake Photos

181 Golden Hour Captions and Quotes Celebrating the Magical Time

277 Solo Female Travel Quotes and Captions (Embrace Adventure and Independence)

165 Beautiful CHERRY BLOSSOM QUOTES and CAPTIONS for Instagram

299 Gorgeous Tropical Vacation Captions and Quotes (Escape to Paradise)

235 Unforgettable FAMILY TRIP CAPTIONS and QUOTES (Perfect for Vacation Photos)

Leave an answer Cancel reply

10 Beautiful Travel Poems For The Adventurer In You

A Travel Poem For The Girl With Itchy Feet

A Travel Poem For The One On A Journey. Any Journey.

A Travel Poem That Sums Up Adventure In Four Gorgeous Lines

A Travel Poem From Margaret Atwood Because She Never Disappoints

This Travel Poem Is Just Everything

This 19th Century Travel Poem Is Just. So. Good.

If Only I Could Swallow This Modern Travel Poem

Then, There’s This Transcendent Travel Poem

And This One

Finally, If You’re Waiting To Pack Your Bags And Go…

FOR THOSE WHO LOVE POETRY

APPLEWOOD BOOKS

ATRIA BOOKS

Related Posts

Inspiring Travel Quotes – Just Grab Your Passport And Go

20 YA Travel Books For The Adventurer In You

Funny Travel Quotes (That Are Laughably Relatable)

36 Eat Pray Love Quotes That Will Speak To Your Heart

7 Reasons Why I Travel

20 Travel Proverbs From Around The World

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

What are you looking for?

25 Inspiring Poems about Adventure

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

1. The Road Not Taken – Robert Frost

2. Song of the Open Road – Walt Whitman

3. Freedom – Olive Runner

4. For the Traveller – John O’Donohue

5. If Once You’ve Slept on an Island – Rachel Field

6. Travel – Robert Louis Stevenson

7. Die Slowly – Martha Medeiros

8. Oh the Places You’ll Go – Dr. Seuss

9. Questions of Travel – Elizabeth Bishop

10. Over the Hills and Far Away – William Ernest Henley

11. O to Sail – Walt Whitman

12. Travel – Edna St Vincent Millay

13. The Land of Beyond – Robert W Service

14. Prayer for Travellers – Anon

15. Ulysses – Alfred Tennyson

16. I Want a Life Measured – Tyler Knott Gregson

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

17. Why Do I Travel – Unknown

18. A Call to Adventure – John Mark Green

19. Returning – Erin Hanson

20. Wanderlust – Richard Avedon

21. The Enchanted Traveler – Bliss Carmen

22. The Farewell – Khalil Gibran

23. What if this Road – Sheenagh Pugh

24. The Return – Geneen Marie Haugen