Poem Analysis - Justice

An Introduction to Kipling's Call for Accountability

Rudyard Kipling's "Justice" is a stern and forceful poem that resonates with a sense of righteous anger and a demand for retribution. The poem's tone is serious and unwavering, imbued with a sense of moral obligation. It moves from a lament for the suffering caused by conflict to a powerful declaration of the necessity for justice. The overarching mood is one of grim determination, a commitment to ensuring that those responsible for widespread suffering are held accountable.

Echoes of Historical Conflict and Colonial Experience

While the poem does not explicitly reference a specific conflict, it is steeped in the historical context of imperialism and war, both of which were central to Kipling's era and experience. As an Englishman deeply involved with the British Empire, Kipling witnessed firsthand the consequences of both righteous and unjust uses of power. The poem can be read as a commentary on the responsibilities of powerful nations and individuals, particularly in the aftermath of conflict, reflecting the moral ambiguities inherent in empire building and warfare.

The Unwavering Pursuit of Justice

One of the central themes of the poem is the necessity of justice as a foundational element for a stable and moral world. Kipling asserts that "Needs must we loosen first the sword / Of Justice upon earth," suggesting that without justice, any attempts to create a new world order are "vain." The poem depicts a world where failing to enact justice leads to a hopeless cycle of suffering and despair, causing the world to sink "back again / Hopeless of God and Man."

The Burden of Leadership and Accountability

Another prevalent theme is the responsibility of leaders and entire nations for their actions. The poem criticizes "A People and their King / Through ancient sin grown strong" because "they feared no reckoning." This theme highlights the idea that unchecked power and a lack of accountability breed corruption and ultimately lead to destruction. Kipling emphasizes that all, regardless of social standing, must be held accountable for their deeds. The call to “Let them relearn the Low" suggests a reversal of power dynamics, where those who inflicted suffering must now understand the perspective of those they harmed.

The Enduring Impact of Evil and the Price of Peace

The poem also explores the lasting impact of evil and the sacrifices required to achieve a just peace. Kipling illustrates the tangible consequences of "Evil Incarnate," including "agony and spoil / Of nations beat to dust, / For poisoned air and tortured soil / And cold, commanded lust." These vivid images paint a grim picture of the devastation caused by unchecked power and malevolence. The poem concludes with a commitment to honor the sacrifices made for peace and to ensure that such atrocities are never forgotten, indicating a desire to prevent future generations from repeating the mistakes of the past. The phrase "Whereby our dead shall sleep / In honour, unbetrayed" expresses the desire to create a world worthy of the sacrifices made.

Images of Destruction and Redemption

The poem employs stark imagery to convey the horrors of injustice. Images such as "poisoned air," "tortured soil," and "nations beat to dust" vividly depict the devastation caused by unchecked power. These images are contrasted with the aspiration for a world where "our dead shall sleep / In honour, unbetrayed," suggesting a future of peace and redemption. The "sword of Justice" is a recurring symbol, representing the forceful and necessary intervention required to restore moral order. Perhaps, the "sword of Justice" is not literal at all, but a metaphor for the courage to speak the truth and the will to act decisively against oppression.

A Final Call for Perpetual Vigilance

In conclusion, "Justice" is a powerful poem that serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of injustice and the vital importance of accountability. Kipling's work functions as a cautionary tale, warning against the dangers of unchecked power and urging perpetual vigilance in the pursuit of a just and equitable world. The poem's significance lies in its enduring message about the necessity of confronting evil and upholding moral principles, even in the face of immense challenges. Its final message is a call to actively build a better world, not merely remember the sacrifices made in the past.