In looking back upon these discursive comments on the Vagabond element in
modern literature, one cannot help asking what is the resultant effect of
the Vagabond temperament upon life and thought. As psychologists no
doubt we are content to examine its peculiarities and extravagances
without troubling to ask how far it has made for sanity and sweetness.
Yet the question sooner or later rises to our lips. This Vagabond
temperament--is its charm and attractiveness merely superficial? I
cannot think so. I think that on the whole its effect upon our
literature has been salutary and beneficial.
These more eager, more adventurous spirits express for us the holiday
mood of life. For they are young at heart, inasmuch as they have lived
in the sunshine, and breathed in the fresh, untainted air. They have
indeed scattered "a new roughness and gladness" among men and women, for
they have spoken to us of the simple magic of the Earth.
I
WILLIAM HAZLITT
"He that is weary, let him sit,
My soul would stir
And trade in courtesies and wit,
Quitting the fur
To cold complexions needing it."