Abstract: The article is a study of the imitative epigram addressed by Marot to Rabelais in the style of Martial, a unique trace of an elusive literary friendship. Published posthumously in 1550, the moving quatorzain may echo the Thelemite utopia, while reflecting the air of bitterness that infused the last years of the reign of François I, when the poet wandered in exile, and the novelist dreamt of a retreat dedicated to otium.
