The King of our Republic
The narrative presents a figure who embodies the spirit and aspirations of a nation, referred to as the King of the Republic. This character is not a traditional monarch but represents a leader who emerges from the collective will of the people. The poem emphasizes the leader's arrival, marked by a sense of inevitability and significance, suggesting that he has been part of the national consciousness for some time. The King is portrayed as a transformative figure, one who will address the complexities and challenges faced by the nation. His leadership is characterized by a commitment to the welfare of the country, prioritizing the common good over personal interests. The text suggests that this leader will be a source of strength and resolve, capable of navigating the turbulent waters of governance with a firm hand. Despite his stern demeanor, the King is depicted as possessing a gentle heart, indicating a balance between authority and compassion. This duality highlights the ideal qualities of a leader who is both strong and empathetic, capable of guiding the nation while remaining connected to the struggles of its people. The poem reflects themes of national identity, leadership, and the collective aspirations of a society seeking direction and purpose. The King symbolizes hope and the potential for greatness, suggesting that true leadership arises from the people and is defined by their needs and values. The work ultimately celebrates the idea of a republic where the leader is a servant of the nation, embodying the principles of democracy and collective responsibility.
By Henry Lawson · First published 1896 · Genre: Poetry, Political Commentary, Patriotic Literature · 332 words
First lines
HENRY LAWSON.
HE IS coming! He is coming! without heralds, without cheers. He is coming! He is coming! and he's been with us for years: And, if you should pause to wonder who's the man of whom I sing -- 'Tis the King of our Republic, and the man we shall call King.
What this Textopian page supports
The King of our Republic is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry Lawson, dated 1896 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Henry Lawson
- Date: 1896 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Political Commentary, Patriotic Literature, Social Critique, Historical Reflection
- Length: 332 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The King of our Republic by Henry Lawson
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The King of our Republic?
- How does this poem by Henry Lawson fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Wholl Wear The Beaten Colours by Henry Lawson
- Since The Cities Are The Cities by Henry Lawson
- Cromwell by Henry Lawson
- Above Crows Nest Sydney by Henry Lawson
- Church Of England by Samuel Taylor Coleridge
- Baron Von Humboldt by Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and rhyme, characteristic of poetry.
- Political Commentary — The poem addresses themes of leadership and governance, reflecting on the nature of authority in a republic.
- Patriotic Literature — The text expresses national pride and the ideal of a leader who embodies the spirit of the nation.
- Social Critique — The poem critiques existing societal structures and envisions a new kind of leadership.
Tags
Henry Lawson · poetry · Australia · Republic · leadership · national identity · tyranny · greatness · Cromwell · gentleness · unwavering · patriotism