Gunga Din by Rudyard Kipling (1890)
The poem narrates the experiences of a British soldier in colonial India, focusing on the character of Gunga Din, a water-bearer (bhishti) for the regiment. The soldier reflects on the harsh realities of military life, contrasting the comforts of home with the brutal conditions faced in battle. Gunga Din, despite being treated poorly and mocked by the soldiers, consistently demonstrates bravery and selflessness. Throughout the poem, the soldier recounts how Gunga Din tirelessly fulfills his duties, fetching water even under fire, and shows no fear in the face of danger. The soldier's attitude shifts as he recognizes Gunga Din's courage and loyalty, especially during a critical moment when he is wounded. Gunga Din provides him with water and aids in his rescue, ultimately sacrificing his own life in the process. In the end, the soldier acknowledges Gunga Din's true worth, realizing that despite the mistreatment he endured, Gunga Din is a better man than himself. The poem concludes with a poignant reflection on Gunga Din's legacy, suggesting that he will continue to serve and provide comfort in the afterlife, highlighting themes of honor, sacrifice, and the complexities of colonial relationships.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, War Literature, Colonial Literature · 1,011 words
First lines
You may talk o' gin and beer When you're quartered safe out 'ere, An' you're sent to penny-fights an' Aldershot it; But when it comes to slaughter You will do your work on water, An' you'll lick the bloomin' boots of 'im that's got it. Now in Injia's sunny clime, Where I used to spend my time A-servin' of 'Er Majesty the Queen, Of all them blackfaced crew The finest man I knew Was our regimental bhisti, Gunga Din. He was "Din! Din! Din! You limpin' lump o' brick-dust, Gunga Din! Hi! slippery _hitherao_! Water, get it! _Panee lao_! [Bring water swiftly.] You squidgy-nosed old idol, Gunga Din."
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Gunga Din is listed on Textopian as a poem by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1890 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Rudyard Kipling
- Date: 1890 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, War Literature, Colonial Literature, Adventure, Historical Fiction
- Length: 1,011 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is a narrative poem that employs rhythm and rhyme, characteristic of the poetry genre.
- War Literature — The poem explores themes of war, bravery, and sacrifice, focusing on the experiences of soldiers.
- Colonial Literature — The setting and characters reflect the colonial context of British India, addressing themes of imperialism and cultural interaction.
- Adventure — The narrative includes elements of adventure, depicting the challenges faced by soldiers in a combat environment.
Tags
poetry · British colonialism · India · heroism · bravery · servitude · military · water bearer · friendship · betrayal · sacrifice · courage