Death and the King's Horseman Principles Quotes

How we cite our quotes: Act.Line

Quote #4

Richly, richly, robe him richly
The cloth of honour is alari
Sanyan is the band of friendship
Boa-skin makes slippers of esteem. (1.62)

In preparation for Elesin's big sacrifice, Iyaloja directs the market women to prepare duds special enough for someone as courageous as Elesin. Ladies: Bust out your finery.

Quote #5

How can that be? In all my life
As Horseman of the King, the juiciest
Fruit on every tree was mine. I saw,
I touched, I wooed, rarely was the answer No.
The honour of my place, the veneration I
Received in the eye of man or woman
Prospered my suit and
Played havoc with my sleeping hours. (1.76)

Here, Elesin is describing what a big deal he has been in his lifetime and what a great reputation he's had. Apparently, he's been revered pretty much across the board. You know what they say about the higher they climb…

Quote #6

OLUNDE: I don't find it morbid at all. I find it rather inspiring. It is an affirmative commentary on life.

JANE: What is?

OLUNDE: The captain's self-sacrifice.

JANE: Nonsense. Life should never be thrown deliberately away. (4.78-81)

Jane and Olunde are discussing a British captain who was forced to blow himself up with a ship to prevent the vessel from endangering other people and ships. Olunde admires the self-sacrifice, whereas Jane apparently just can't get behind throwing your life away, no matter the reason.