Poem Analysis - The King 2

A Royal Welcome and Hopeful Vision

Henry Lawson's "The King 2." is a poem imbued with optimism and celebratory anticipation. It captures the excitement surrounding a royal visit to Australia, reflecting a sense of hope for peace and prosperity under the new King's reign. The tone is initially one of awe and reverence, shifting slightly to a vision of a brighter future. The poem uses vivid imagery of grand ceremonies and the speaker's hopeful vision to convey its message.

Echoes of Colonial Sentiment

Lawson, an Australian poet, wrote this poem likely during a time when the British monarchy still held significant sway over Australia. This context is crucial; the poem reflects a period where a royal visit was a major event, filled with symbolic importance and national pride. The reference to the "British King" seeing his "Southern Hemisphere" explicitly acknowledges the colonial relationship between Britain and Australia. While Lawson was known for his sympathy towards the working class and sometimes critical views, this poem seems to temporarily embrace the prevailing sentiment of loyalty and hope associated with the monarchy.

Themes of Hope, Peace, and National Identity

The dominant theme is undoubtedly hope for a brighter future. This hope is directly linked to the new King and his reign. The line "The star of peace shall brighter shine" encapsulates this yearning for a peaceful and prosperous era. Peace is another key theme, intertwined with the hope for a positive reign. The poem suggests the King's rule will usher in an era where "men and nations, without fear / Shall hope and labour, strive and sing." Finally, the poem touches upon national identity, albeit subtly. The very act of the King visiting the "Southern Hemisphere" highlights Australia's place within the British Empire and the significance of this connection to its inhabitants.

Symbols of Royalty and Divine Blessing

The poem employs several significant symbols. The King himself is a symbol of authority, tradition, and the hope for a stable future. "Cannons' din" and "pealing bells" symbolize celebration, power, and the grandeur associated with royalty. The image of the "Royal couple meekly kneel, / The Great God's clemency to claim" is a powerful symbol of the monarchy's connection to divine authority and their responsibility to their people. It suggests that the King's power is not absolute but is derived from and accountable to a higher power, adding a layer of moral responsibility to his reign.

A Lasting Legacy and Ambiguous End

"The King 2." is a poem that offers a snapshot of a specific time and place, revealing the hopes and expectations associated with the monarchy in colonial Australia. The poem's vision of peace and prosperity under the new King serves as a testament to the enduring power of symbolism and the enduring desire for a better future. The final line, "The King is Dead! Long Live the King" is not referring to the current King in the poem but it is a symbolic reiteration about the monarchy itself. The poem showcases the continuity of the throne and the ongoing hope placed in the institution of kingship, even as individuals pass away. Ultimately, the poem serves as a hopeful celebration of a new era, albeit one viewed through the lens of a colonial past.