Monologue

Gaunt Monologue from Richard II

From Richard II by William Shakespeare

male · contemplative · 52 sec

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O, but they say the tongues of dying men Enforce attention like deep harmony. Where words are scarce, they are seldom spent in vain, For they breathe truth that breathe their words in pain. He that no more must say is listened more Than they whom youth and ease have taught to glose. More are men’s ends marked than their lives before. The setting sun and music at the close, As the last taste of sweets, is sweetest last, Writ in remembrance more than things long past. Though Richard my life’s counsel would not hear, My death’s sad tale may yet undeaf his ear.

About this piece

Gaunt reflects on the weight of his impending death and the truths that emerge in such moments, hoping to reach the ears of King Richard despite their past disconnect.

60 and up · sadness · death · truth · remembrance · loss

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