The King by Madison Cawein (1905)

Name: The King
Author: Madison Cawein

The narrative unfolds in a vivid, atmospheric setting, where a king, disguised among his knights, embarks on a jousting quest at Camelot. The imagery evokes a sense of desolation and heat, contrasting with the vibrant life of the knights as they prepare for the tournament. The king's thoughts reflect a desire for equality and valor in the competition. As the scene shifts, the focus turns to a woman at her window, embodying beauty and grace. Her presence is enchanting, with her hair and features illuminated by the moonlight. A man approaches her, filled with passion and jealousy, revealing a tumultuous relationship marked by love and betrayal. The tension escalates as he questions her fidelity, leading to a violent confrontation. The climax reveals the tragic outcome of their interaction, as the man, consumed by rage and jealousy, fatally wounds her. This act of betrayal intertwines themes of love, honor, and the consequences of unchecked emotions. The poem captures the essence of chivalric ideals, juxtaposed with the darker aspects of human nature, ultimately leading to a poignant and tragic conclusion. The interplay of light and darkness, both in the physical setting and the emotional landscape, underscores the complexity of the characters' relationships and the inevitable tragedy that unfolds.

By Madison Cawein · First published 1905 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Fantasy · 615 words

First lines

A blown white bubble buoyed zenith-ward, Up from the tremulous East the round moon swung Mist-murky, and the unsocial stars that thronged, Hot with the drought, thick down the empty West, Winked thirstily; no wind to rouse the leaves, That o'er the glaring road lolled palpitant, Withered and whitened of the weary dust From iron hoofs of that gay fellowship Of knights which gat at morn the king disguised; Whose mind was, "in the lists to joust and be An equal mid unequals, man with man: " Who from the towers of Edric passed, wherein Some nights he'd sojourned, till one morn a horn Sang at dim portals, musical with dew, Wild echoes of wild woodlands and the hunt, Clear herald of the staunchest of his knights; And they to the great jousts at Camelot Rode pounding off, a noise of steel and steeds.

What this Textopian page supports

The King is listed on Textopian as a poem by Madison Cawein, dated 1905 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Madison Cawein
Date: 1905 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romance, Fantasy, Tragedy, Historical Fiction
Length: 615 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rich imagery and lyrical language typical of poetry.
Romance — The themes of love, desire, and betrayal are central to the narrative, focusing on romantic relationships.
Fantasy — The setting includes elements of chivalry, knights, and a mythical atmosphere associated with Camelot.
Tragedy — The narrative culminates in a tragic event, highlighting themes of love and betrayal leading to death.