"Honorable Man" Poem and Analysis

"How can success be measured in a man
By the net worth of his fortune?
By the possesions he displays?
By the vastness of the land he owns or
by the notoriety he's achieved through great deeds
if only to satisfy his own ego or greed.

If I could choose something to make me successful
it would be, to be thought of as an honest man,
a caring partner and father, and at the end
to have but one good friend and a loving family
who will mourn my passing and remember me
not as great, wealthy, or notable, but as an honorable man." ~Author Unknown


Analysis:
This poem relates to the play of Julius Caesar in regard to Cassius, Brutus, and Caesar. This poem truly defines Brutus and his intentions. He wanted no fame, no notoriety, no money from the murder of Caesar. He just wanted the peace of mind that Ceasar could not be king, and therefore Rome would be better off. Cassius tries to be an honorable person but shows flaws in his character at times. He uses the example of saving Caesar to convince others of his honorable intentions too. In comparison to Brutus, though, Cassius is much more hungry for attention. I do not believe he would have tried so hard to be of honorable character if he didn't have an audience. Caesar is the least honorable. This poem contradicts his character and describes what he was not. Like Cassuis, Caesar wanted awards and notoriety for his good deeds. He did everything for the good of himself and he wanted to be "great."

~Chuckette Norris