Remarks about Kings (the Trial as by Fire)
The story revolves around a young king who must face a series of trials to prove his worth and right to the throne. The first trial tests his courage in the face of danger, where he must confront a ferocious beast that has been terrorizing the kingdom. The second trial requires him to demonstrate his wisdom by solving a complex riddle left behind by a wise old sage. If he fails, the kingdom will be plunged into darkness and chaos. In the final trial, the young king is forced to choose between two paths: one leading to wealth and power, the other to poverty and humility. His decision will determine the fate of his people and the future of the kingdom. Throughout the trials, the young king faces numerous challenges and setbacks, but ultimately emerges stronger and wiser, ready to take on the responsibilities of kingship.
By Henry Van Dyke · First published 1900 · Genre: Poetry, Political Commentary, Philosophical · 195 words
Editions
First lines
_God said, "I am tired of kings._" -- EMERSON.
God said, "I am tired of kings," -- / But that was a long time ago! / And meantime man said, "No, / I like their looks in their robes and rings. " / So he crowned a few more, / And they went on playing the game as before / Fighting and spoiling things.
Man said, "I am tired of kings! / Sons of the robber-chiefs of yore, / They make me pay for their lust and their war; / I am the puppet, they pull the strings; / The blood of my heart is the wine they drink. / I will govern myself for while I think, / And see what that brings!"
Then God, who made the first remark, / Smiled in the dark.
What this Textopian page supports
Remarks about Kings (the Trial as by Fire) is listed on Textopian as a short story by Henry Van Dyke, dated 1900 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Henry Van Dyke
- Date: 1900 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Political Commentary, Philosophical, Historical, Satire
- Length: 195 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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- Work identity for Remarks about Kings (the Trial as by Fire) by Henry Van Dyke
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a rhythmic and lyrical quality.
- Political Commentary — The themes revolve around governance, power, and the critique of monarchy.
- Philosophical — It explores existential themes and the human condition in relation to authority.
- Historical — References to historical governance and the evolution of political systems are present.
Tags
Philosophical Fiction · Satire · Social Commentary · Historical Fiction · Allegory · Moral Fable · Symbolism · Mythology · Folklore · Literary Satire · Cultural Critique · Royal Politics