Our Lady of the Snows (Poem by Rudyard Kipling)

Our Lady of the Snows

(Canadian Preferential Tariff, 1897)

By Rudyard Kipling

A  Nation spoke to a Nation.

    A Queen sent word to a Throne:

"Daughter am I in my mother's house

    But mistress in my own.

The gates are mine to open,

    As the gates are mine to close,

And I set my house in order,"

    Said our Lady of the Snows.

"Neither with laughter nor weeping,

    Fear or the child's amaze — 

Soberly under the White Man's law

    My white men go their ways.

Not for the Gentiles' clamour — 

    Insult or threat of blows — 

Bow we the knee to Baal,"

    Said our Lady of the Snows.

"My speech is clean and single,

    I talk of common things — 

Words of the wharf and the market-place

    And the ware the merchant brings:

Favour to those I favour,

    But a stumbling-block to my foes.

Many there be that hate us,"

    Said our Lady of the Snows.

"I called my chiefs to council

    In the din of a troubled year;

For the sake of a sign ye would not see,

    And a word ye would not hear.

This is our message and answer;

    This is the path we chose:

For we be also a people,"

    Said our Lady of the Snows.

"Carry the word to my sisters — 

    To the Queens of the East and the South

I have proven faith in the Heritage

    By more than the word of the mouth.

They that are wise may follow

    Ere the world's war-trumpet blows,

But I — I am first in the battle,"

    Said our Lady of the Snows.

A Nation spoke to a Nation,

    A Throne sent word to a Throne:

"Daughter am I in my mother's house,

    But mistress in my own.

The gates are mine to open,

    As the gates are mine to close,

And I abide by my Mother's House,"

    Said our Lady of the Snows.

Poem Analysis:

"Our Lady of the Snows" by Rudyard Kipling is a poem that speaks to the sovereignty and independence of a nation, represented by a queen or ruler referred to as "our Lady of the Snows." Through rich imagery and allegory, Kipling explores themes of self-governance, cultural identity, and steadfast determination in the face of external pressures.

Assertion of Sovereignty: The poem begins with a bold declaration of the nation's autonomy and self-determination. The queen asserts her authority over her realm, emphasizing her role as both a daughter in her mother's house and a mistress in her own. This duality symbolizes the nation's connection to its heritage while asserting its independence and sovereignty.

Rule of Law and Order: "Our Lady of the Snows" highlights the queen's commitment to maintaining law and order within her kingdom. She upholds the principles of justice and fairness, ensuring that her subjects abide by the laws of the land. The reference to the "White Man's law" suggests a system of governance rooted in reason and impartiality.

Resistance to External Pressure: Despite facing opposition and hostility from outsiders, the queen remains resolute in her convictions. She refuses to yield to the demands or threats of foreign powers, asserting her nation's right to self-governance and self-defense. The reference to bowing "the knee to Baal" symbolizes the rejection of false idols and foreign influences.

Clarity of Purpose: "Our Lady of the Snows" emphasizes the clarity of the queen's vision and purpose. She communicates her intentions clearly to her allies and adversaries alike, demonstrating strength and resolve in the face of adversity. Her words reflect a deep sense of duty and commitment to her people and their collective welfare.

Leadership and Guidance: The poem suggests that the queen serves as a beacon of leadership and guidance for other nations, particularly those in the East and the South. Her actions and decisions set an example for others to follow, showcasing the strength and resilience of her nation in the face of global challenges.

Loyalty to Heritage: The poem concludes with a reaffirmation of the queen's loyalty to her nation's heritage and traditions. Despite her independence and authority, she acknowledges her roots and the values instilled in her by her ancestors. This sense of continuity and connection to the past underscores the queen's role as a custodian of her nation's legacy.

In summary, "Our Lady of the Snows" celebrates the sovereignty, resilience, and moral clarity of a nation personified by its queen. Through her unwavering leadership and commitment to principle, she navigates the complexities of geopolitics while remaining steadfast in her devotion to her people and their shared heritage.