The Sack of the Gods
The narrative unfolds in a mythic realm where two powerful figures, a Lord of the Inca race and a Queen of the Sea, embark on a grand and tumultuous journey. They are depicted as celestial beings, adorned with jewels and feathers, who engage in a fierce battle against the gods in Valhalla, a legendary hall of the slain. This conflict is set against a backdrop of cosmic imagery, emphasizing their strength and determination. The protagonists are driven by a desire to conquer and claim their place among the divine, showcasing their defiance against the established order. The text reflects on themes of forgiveness and the cyclical nature of conflict, suggesting that even the gods are subject to the passage of time and the inevitability of reconciliation. The imagery of stars and meteors serves to illustrate the vastness of their struggle, as they cast aside worlds in their quest for glory. As the battle rages, the narrative hints at a deeper connection between the two figures, suggesting that their fates are intertwined in this cosmic struggle. The mention of "the Night of Nights" and "worlds afire" evokes a sense of chaos and passion, underscoring the intensity of their endeavor. The text also contemplates the nature of existence, questioning the value of souls and the resources of the universe, implying a philosophical reflection on creation and destruction. Ultimately, the tale suggests that the cycle of conflict and resolution is eternal, with the promise of return and renewal as long as the Earth exists. The protagonists' journey is emblematic of the human condition, grappling with ambition, love, and the quest for meaning in a vast and indifferent cosmos. The narrative concludes with a sense of inevitability, reinforcing the idea that the struggle against the divine is a fundamental aspect of existence, echoing through time and space.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1935 · Genre: Fantasy, Mythology, Epic Poetry · 356 words
First lines
Strangers drawn from the ends of the earth, jewelled and plumed were we. I was Lord of the Inca race, and she was Queen of the Sea. Under the stars beyond our stars where the new-forged meteors glow Hotly we stormed Valhalla, a million years ago.
_Ever 'neath high Valhalla Hall the well-tuned horns begin When the swords are out in the underworld, and the weary Gods come in. Ever through high Valhalla Gate the Patient Angel goes; He opens the eyes that are blind with hate -- he joins the hands of foes._
What this Textopian page supports
The Sack of the Gods is listed on Textopian as a poem by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1935 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: 1935 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Fantasy, Mythology, Epic Poetry, Adventure, Philosophical
- Length: 356 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Sack of the Gods by Rudyard Kipling
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Fantasy — The poem features mythical elements, gods, and a fantastical setting, characteristic of the fantasy genre.
- Mythology — The narrative draws heavily on mythological themes, particularly Norse mythology with references to Valhalla and gods.
- Epic Poetry — The grand scale of the conflict and the elevated style of the writing align with the conventions of epic poetry.
- Adventure — The poem depicts a journey and battle against gods, embodying adventure elements.
Tags
Rudyard Kipling · poetry · mythology · Valhalla · gods · Inca · sea · strangers · war · cosmic · forgiveness · time