• 2449 words
• Language: English

Synopsis

"Childe Roland to the Dark Tower Came" is a poem by English author Robert Browning, written in 1855 and first published that same year in the collection entitled Men and Women. The poem has influenced many other authors including modern horror writer Stephen King in his seven book epic, 'The Dark Tower', featuring The Gunslinger; Roland Deschain.

Excerpt

I

My first thought was, he lied in every word,
That hoary cripple, with malicious eye
Askance to watch the working of his lie
On mine, and mouth scarce able to afford
Suppression of the glee, that pursed and scored
Its edge, at one more victim gained thereby.

II

What else should he be set for, with his staff?
What, save to waylay with his lies, ensnare
All travellers who might find him posted there,
And ask the road? I guessed what skull–like laugh
Would break, what crutch 'gin write my epitaph
For pastime in the dusty thoroughfare.