Recessional by Rudyard Kipling

Rudyard Kipling was Queen Victoria's poet laureate. During the Jubilee Celebration of her 60 years as a monarch he authored this poem. Known for his spontaneity and comedic whit, it was a surprise for him to deliver something with such gravity at a happy time of celebration. The poem contrasts the permanence of God with the transient nature of empires.

[ThePoliticrat]

A great song that I feel is really relevant today. America is undergoing the same tumult as the British Empire during its latter days.

[kimhealy]

This is the fourth or fifth tune I have heard to this powerful text. The minor key is very effective for its penitential content.

[pennymansfield]

Thank you so much for sharing! That was absolutely BEAUTIFUL!

[garyneildenney]

Tomorrow is ANZAC Day in New Zealand and Australia. For over 100 years this song has been sung to remember those who gave there lives at Galipolli in Turkey. The last line LEST WE FORGET is also a part of a prayer used each year at the thousands of Dawn Services around the world. Visiting Suva Bay where the battle took place is somewhat of right of passage for many Australians and New Zealanders. Being there at dawn. "..and in the morning and at the going down of the sun, We will remember them. Lest we forget.

[Sg-mzof]

Incredible! Thank you so much, you helped me during my studying 💗 I hope you keep doing more poems in this way

[ivoryn]

I was surprised to find a poem of Rudyard while actually searching for a book of complete different thematic that was referenced during a lecture... now while reading his poem I started singing to it, and then to fill me with exhilaration your video was suggested giving life to that same tune, thank you sir, this was quite the experience!