Conqueror

Portrait of Robert William Service
Robert William Service 1874–1958

Though I defy the howling horde As bloody-browed I smite, Back to the wall with shattered sword When darkly dooms the night; Though hoarse they cheer as I go down Before their bitter odds, 'Tis I who win the victor's crown, The guerdon of the gods.

For all who fall in fearless fight Alight a deathless flame, That glorifies the godless night And fills the foe with shame. 'Tis they who triumph heaven-high, And so in hell's despite, Be mine the dauntless will to die In battle for the right.

The rant and cant of futile folk Break brittle in my ears; Let me cast off the cursed yoke And fall upon the spears. Aye, though they mock my broken blade, And stamp and spit on me, Mine is the Shining Accolade, The Star of Victory.

Keep reading

Discover more of Robert William Service’s poetry.

Explore all poems

Readers

Reader discussion 1 comment

Add your reading ↓
Readers
1
Longest reading
Allen Cook5 words
  1. Allen Cook United States

    It's awsome. I like it.

Your turn

Shown with your comment.

Never published. Only so we can reach you.

Comments are read before they appear. See our terms.