The King by Rudyard Kipling (1926)
The narrative explores the transition from a romanticized past to a more pragmatic present, reflecting on the loss of idealism across various societal roles. The Cave-men, Lake-folk, Soldiers, Traders, Skippers, and others lament the departure of "Romance," symbolizing a bygone era of adventure, honor, and myth. Each group expresses their sorrow over the fading of noble pursuits and the rise of mundane realities, where technology and practicality overshadow the heroic and the poetic. The poem captures the essence of nostalgia, as characters reminisce about a time when life was infused with magic and valor. The refrain "Farewell, Romance!" underscores a collective mourning for the simplicity and grandeur of earlier days, replaced by the harshness of modernity. The Boy-god, representing youthful spirit and creativity, continues to labor amidst the industrial landscape, suggesting that while romance may be fading, the essence of human endeavor and aspiration persists. Ultimately, the work serves as a commentary on the inevitable march of progress, juxtaposing the romantic ideals of the past with the realities of contemporary existence. It reflects on how society's values shift, often at the expense of the dreams and stories that once inspired generations. The closing lines evoke a sense of loss but also hint at the enduring legacy of those who once lived with passion and purpose, leaving behind a world that remembers them fondly.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1926 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction · 506 words
First lines
"Farewell, Romance! " the Cave-men said; "With bone well carved he went away, Flint arms the ignoble arrowhead, And jasper tips the spear to-day. Changed are the Gods of Hunt and Dance, And he with these. Farewell, Romance!"
"Farewell, Romance! " the Lake-folk sighed; "We lift the weight of flatling years; The caverns of the mountain-side Hold him who scorns our hutted piers. Lost hills whereby we dare not dwell, Guard ye his rest. Romance, farewell!"
What this Textopian page supports
The King is listed on Textopian as a poem by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1926 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: 1926 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction, Philosophical, Narrative Poetry
- Length: 506 words
- Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Literary Fiction — The themes explore complex ideas about change, loss, and the passage of time, characteristic of literary fiction.
- Historical Fiction — The references to different societal roles and historical contexts suggest a reflection on past eras.
- Philosophical — The text contemplates the nature of romance and its evolution, engaging with philosophical themes.
Tags
Romance · Farewell · Change · Tradition · Loss · Nature · War · Honor · Trade · Adventure · Myth · Heroism