FAREWELL TO MY KINGDOM
or
A KING’S LAMENTATION
Of once renowned ruling ancestors born
So early forested great race of Glory to run
Late to me revealed by that aging sage
Soon born, soon by uncles engage
But enviable crown of Kingship was in latter years to wear
Still toilsome now in this crowning year
So from hand to hand this Kingship craft to learn
Though young in years, but wisdom with pains to earn
No sooner sit on ancient throne to reign
Soon more warriors ancient cities gain
But now captive at my kingdom’s gate
So dictates the hands of contesting fate
Now forest to forest the royal household ride
By once trusted elders, of late soon misguide.
Me who once by many foreigners homage pay
Now like beggar calmly crave on that dreadful way.
Jacob E. Obaseki
EDITOR’S NOTE
Source: Archiving (Nigeria Magazine, Sunday, March 1, 1970).