“A writer can live by his writing. If not so luxuriously as by other trades, then less luxuriously. The nature of the work he does all day will more affect his happiness than the quality of his dinner at night. Whatever be your calling, and however much it brings you in the year, you could still, you know, get more by cheating. We all suffer ourselves to be too much concerned about a little poverty; but such considerations should not move us in the choice of that which is to be the business and justification of so great a portion of our lives; and like the missionary, the patriot, or the philosopher, we should all choose that poor and brave career in which we can do the most and best for mankind.”

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About Robert Louis Stevenson

Scottish novelist, essayist, poet, and travel writer

Robert Louis Stevenson was a Scottish novelist, essayist, poet, and travel writer. He is remembered for fiction that includes Treasure Island, Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, and Kidnapped. His work also includes the poetry collection A Child's Garden of Verses. He wrote across several forms, but is most closely associated with adventure stories, moral darkness, and verse for children.

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Books by Robert Louis Stevenson

Treasure Island

1910

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The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

1875

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The black arrow

1888

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Kidnapped

2002

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David Balfour

1892

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