The Houses by Rudyard Kipling (1895)
The work explores the interconnectedness of human relationships and the shared responsibilities between different houses or communities. It emphasizes the idea that the fate of one house is intrinsically linked to the fate of another, highlighting themes of kinship, loyalty, and mutual support. The poem suggests that material wealth and power are secondary to the bonds formed through friendship and kinship. The speaker reflects on the futility of rivalry and competition, asserting that true strength lies in unity and cooperation. The imagery of pathways symbolizes the connections between people, while the references to "half the world's hoard" and "half the world's hate" illustrate the duality of human existence—wealth and conflict are often intertwined. The work ultimately advocates for a recognition of shared humanity, urging individuals to prioritize relationships over status or dominance. It calls for a collective approach to challenges, suggesting that only through solidarity can communities thrive. The message is clear: the well-being of one is dependent on the well-being of all, and true leadership is found in the ability to uplift others.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1895 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Social Commentary · 203 words
First lines
1898. (A SONG OF THE DOMINIONS)
'Twixt my house and thy house the pathway is broad, In thy house or my house is half the world's hoard; By my house and thy house hangs all the world's fate, On thy house and my house lies half the world's hate.
For my house and thy house no help shall we find Save thy house and my house -- kin cleaving to kind: If my house be taken, thine tumbleth anon, If thy house be forfeit, mine followeth soon.
What this Textopian page supports
The Houses is listed on Textopian as a poem by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1895 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: 1895 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Social Commentary, Historical, Literary Fiction
- Length: 203 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Epitaphs by Rudyard Kipling
- The Bowl And Rim by Robert Graves
- The Pro Consuls by Rudyard Kipling
- What The People Said by Rudyard Kipling
- The World Is Full Of Kindness by Henry Lawson
- The Men Who Stuck To Me by Henry Lawson
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse form, employing rhythmic and lyrical qualities typical of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep concepts of kinship, fate, and the interconnectedness of human relationships.
- Social Commentary — The text reflects on societal structures and the implications of relationships between different houses or groups.
- Historical — The context and themes may reflect historical perspectives on community and governance.
Tags
Rudyard Kipling · The Houses · poetry · 1898 · dominion · friendship · kinship · conflict · community · fate · wealth · hate