The King by Henry Lawson (1896)
The narrative explores themes of leadership, integrity, and the human experience through the lens of a king's life and legacy. It reflects on the king's brief reign, emphasizing his character and the virtues he embodied. The text highlights the contrast between the burdens of royalty and the authenticity of personal truth, suggesting that true nobility lies in one's actions and moral fortitude rather than mere titles. The king is portrayed as a figure who, despite the pressures of his position, remained steadfast in his principles. His life is depicted as a testament to the values of manliness and truth, which resonate beyond his time. The narrative suggests that his legacy is not just in his royal status but in the respect and loyalty he garnered from those around him. As the story unfolds, it delves into the relationships he maintained throughout his life, illustrating how his steadfastness influenced others. The king's ability to inspire loyalty and respect is a central theme, showcasing the impact of genuine leadership. The text suggests that his death marked not just the end of a reign but the continuation of his ideals in the hearts of his subjects. Ultimately, the work serves as a reflection on what it means to be a true leader, emphasizing that greatness is defined by one's character and the ability to connect with others on a human level. The king's life is celebrated as a model of integrity, leaving a lasting impression that transcends his time on the throne.
By Henry Lawson · First published 1896 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Historical · 266 words
First lines
AMONG the sons of Englishmen Full many feel like real tears, For, though he reigned but scarcely ten, He bore the burden many years. He lived the dead past doubly down, He shamed, by manliness and truth, The lies that beat about a crown, And round a known man in his youth.
For he had lived as men have done Since Adam's time, to prove them true. He proved it in his manhood's prime, And to the end, as strong men do. And so he died, and, ever since, And on through years the words shall ring: "He lived a man, he lived a prince, And died a gentleman and King."
What this Textopian page supports
The King 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, Literary Fiction, Historical, Biography, Philosophical
- Length: 266 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The King by Henry Lawson
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Literary Fiction — The themes explore human experience, truth, and integrity, characteristic of literary fiction.
- Historical — The poem reflects on the life and legacy of a king, connecting to historical themes.
- Biography — It presents a reflective account of a king's character and life, akin to biographical writing.
Tags
king · manliness · truth · burden · loyalty · respect · gentleman · youth · steadfastness · crown · honor · leadership