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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


THE NEW KNIGHTHOOD by RUDYARD KIPLING

Poet Analysis

First Line: WHO GIVES HIM THE BATH?
Last Line: WAS SIR GALAHAD MADE—AS IT MIGHT BE LAST WEEK!
Subject(s): KNIGHTS & KNIGHTHOOD;

Who gives him the Bath?
'I,' said the wet,
Rank Jungle-sweat,
'I'll give him the Bath!'

Who lays on the sword?
'I,' said the Sun,
'Before he has done,
'I'll lay on the sword.'

Who fastens his belt?
'I,' said Short-Rations,
'I know all the fashions
'Of tightening a belt!'

Who gives him his spur?
'I,' said his Chief,
Exacting and brief,
'I'll give him the spur.'

Who'll shake his hand?
'I,' said the Fever,
'And I'm no deceiver,
'I'll shake his hand.'

Who brings him the wine?'I,' said Quinine,
'It's a habit of mine.
'@3I@1'll come with his wine.'

Who'll choose him for Knight?
'I,' said his Mother,
'Before any other,
'My very own Knight.'

And after this fashion, adventure to seek,
Was Sir Galahad made—as it might be last week!



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