Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, KINGS, by BRYAN WALLER PROCTER


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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

KINGS, by                     Poet's Biography
First Line: Mehtinks / there's something lonely in the state of kings
Last Line: Yet touch'd by terrors -- what can soothe a king!
Alternate Author Name(s): Cornwall, Barry; Proctor, Bryan Waller
Subject(s): Courts & Courtiers


METHINKS
There's something lonely in the state of kings!
None dare come near them. As the eagle, poised
Upon his sightless throne in upper air,
Scares gentle birds away, so kings (cut off
From human kindred by the curse of power)
Are shunn'd and live alone. Who dare come near
The region of a king? There is a wall
(Invisible, indeed, yet strong and high)
Which fences kings from close approach of men.
They live respected -- oh, that chest "respect!"
As if the homage that abases others
Could comfort him that has't. Alone -- alone!
Prison'd in ermine and a velvet chair --
Shut out from hope, (the height being all attain'd,)
Yet touch'd by terrors -- what can soothe a king!





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