# To the King’s Most Excellent Majesty. 1768 explained — Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral

> Chapter companion for Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral by Phillis Wheatley.

## What happens

A poem expressing loyalty and praise to King George III, wishing him a long reign, divine protection, and the ability to rule with peace and freedom for his subjects.

## Themes in this chapter

### Divine Providence and Nature

The poem invokes God's guidance and protection for the king, linking earthly rule to divine will.

### Freedom and Enslavement

The closing line suggests that a monarch's smile can set his subjects free, touching on the concept of freedom granted by authority.

## Character check-ins

### Unknown Narrator

The speaker addresses the king with reverence and hope.

### Phillis Wheatley

Author of the poem, though not directly named in the text.

## Key lines

> Your subjects hope, dread Sire— The crown upon your brows may flourish long, And that your arm may in your God be strong!

Your people wish, respected king, that your reign may last long and that you may be strengthened by God.

_Opening lines express loyalty and a prayer for the king's longevity and divine support._

> And may each clime with equal gladness see A monarch's smile can set his subjects free!

May every region joyfully witness that a king's favor can liberate his people.

_Concluding couplet emphasizes the power of the monarch to grant freedom._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poems_on_various_subjects_religious_and_moral_se/chapters/to-the-king-s-most-excellent-majesty-1768
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poems_on_various_subjects_religious_and_moral_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poems_on_various_subjects_religious_and_moral_se/chapters