Recessional (1879) | A Poem by Rudyard Kipling | ANZAC

Narrated by Daniel "Avi" Avinash This poem was written in 1897 and originally published in the Times of London for Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. It speaks on the state of the British Empire. It is occasionally sung as a hymn to the tune Melita on Anzac day ceremonies to commemorate the dead of the two world wars. In this poem, Mr Kipling is reminding the British people to never forget the God who saw them through dark times and brought them triumphantly into the light. He is also concerned that the nation is starting to forget about the love they owe God for all He has done for them. For this, he seeks Gods mercy. ________________________________________________ Recessional 1897 God of our fathers, known of old, Lord of our far-flung battle-line, Beneath whose awful Hand we hold Dominion over palm and pine— Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet, Lest we forget—lest we forget! The tumult and the shouting dies; The Captains and the Kings depart: Still stands Thine ancient sacrifice, An humble and a contrite heart. Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet, Lest we forget—lest we forget! Far-called, our navies melt away; On dune and headland sinks the fire: Lo, all our pomp of yesterday Is one with Nineveh and Tyre! Judge of the Nations, spare us yet, Lest we forget—lest we forget! If, drunk with sight of power, we loose Wild tongues that have not Thee in awe, Such boastings as the Gentiles use, Or lesser breeds without the Law— Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet, Lest we forget—lest we forget! For heathen heart that puts her trust In reeking tube and iron shard, All valiant dust that builds on dust, And guarding, calls not Thee to guard, For frantic boast and foolish word— Thy mercy on Thy People, Lord! _________________________________________________ Music: "Monomyth - The Distant Sun" by Scott Buckley - www.scottbuckley.com.au Recorded and produced in Melbourne, Australia by Daniel "Avi" Avinash #poetry #rudyardkipling #anzac #war