Remarks About Kings

Read 'Remarks About Kings' by 'Henry Van Dyke' and provide your summary and literary analysis in the comments section below.

Remarks About Kings by Henry Van Dyke

 "God said I am tired of kings." -- EMERSON 

God said, "I am tired of kings,"--
But that was a long while ago! 
And meantime man said, "No,--
I like their looks in their robes and rings." 
So he crowned a few more,
And they went on playing the game as before,
Fighting and spoiling things. 

Man said, "I am tired of kings!
Sons of the robber-chiefs of yore,
They make me pay for their lust and their war;
I am the puppet, they pull the strings; 
The blood of my heart is the wine they drink.
I will govern myself for awhile I think, 
And see what that brings!" 

Then God, who made the first remark, 
Smiled in the dark.

Form: Free verse Comments

Comments About This Poem

Share your interpretation, favorite passage, or thoughts about this famous poem. Please provide an in-depth and meaningful comment.

  • What do you think the poet was trying to say?
  • Which line had the biggest impact on you?
  • How does this poem relate to modern life?
  • What literary devices did you notice?
No comments have been posted yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace