Which Was the King?

"Which Was the King?" is a thought-provoking work by James Baldwin that explores themes of identity, race, and the complexities of human relationships. Set against the backdrop of a racially divided America, Baldwin's narrative delves into the lives of its characters as they grapple with their personal struggles and societal pressures. Through poignant prose and deep psychological insight, Baldwin challenges readers to confront the historical and contemporary implications of power and privilege, ultimately posing questions about morality, justice, and the human experience. This exploration is emblematic of Baldwin's broader body of work, characterized by its keen observations and eloquent prose.

• Short story

								
One day King Henry the Fourth of France was hunting in a large forest.
Towards evening he told his men to ride home by the main road while
he went by another way that was somewhat longer.

As he came out of the forest he saw a little boy by the roadside, who
seemed to be watching for some one.

"Well, my boy," said the king, "are you looking for your father?"

"No, sir," answered the boy. "I am looking for the king. They say he
is hunting in the woods, and perhaps will ride out this way. So I'm
waiting to see him."

"Oh, if that is what you wish," said King Henry, "get up behind me on
the horse and I'll take you to the place where you will see him."

The boy got up at once, and sat behind the king. The horse cantered
briskly along, and king and boy were soon quite well acquainted.

"They say that King Henry always has a number of men with him," said
the boy; "how shall I know which is he?"

"Oh, that will be easy enough," was the answer. "All the other men
will take off their hats, but the king will keep his on."

"Do you mean that the one with his hat on will be the king?"

"Certainly."

Soon they came into the main road where a number of the king's men
were waiting. All the men seemed amused when they saw the boy, and as
they rode up, they greeted the king by taking off their hats.

"Well, my boy," said King Henry, "which do you think is the king?"

"I don't know," answered the boy; "but it must be either you or I, for
we both have our hats on."
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