Legends and Last Words: From King George V to Ned Kelly
The tales of last words are intriguing and often shrouded in mystery and folklore. From the royal family to notorious bush-rangers, these final moments can reveal much about a person's character and the events they were enmeshed in.
King George V and the Sea
In the later years of his reign, King George V faced significant health issues, particularly regarding his respiratory system. Despite the aggravating climate conditions, medical advice suggested that spending time at the seaside could be therapeutic. As the story goes, shortly before his death, the King was told he would soon be well enough to visit the seaside town of Bognor Regis, which is located in West Sussex, England.
The King, upon receiving this news, is famously supposed to have uttered the phrase, "Before anyone else does, let me tell the possibly apocryphal tale of the English seaside town of Bognor Regis and King George V." However, the authenticity of these words is debated, with some historians questioning whether he actually spoke them in that context. Nonetheless, the story speaks volumes about the King's complex relationship with the town. Even though the sea air did help to improve his health, there is no disputing that the King had little regard for the town.
When it came to his own final words, the King humorously wished for his final moments to be associated with Basingstoke, his hometown. Basingstoke has a particular charm for him that keeps him coming back, much to his chagrin. He playfully remarks that no matter how far he travels, he can never escape the haunting presence of the AA Building and Churchill Plaza, signifying his deep connection to the place.
The Final Words of Ned Kelly
Traversing from royalty to outlaw, we come to the famous Australian bush-ranger, Ned Kelly. At the mass trial of three bush-rangers, one of which was his younger brother, Ned Kelly issued an infamous statement that has become a part of Australian lore. According to the legend, as he walked past his mother in the jail, Ellen Kelly, she courageously declared, "Make sure you die like a Kelly son."
Ellen Kelly's words echo a sense of pride and a directive to her son, urging him to meet his fate with courage and determination. This final statement encapsulates the bush-ranger's spirit and the adoration that many Australians feel for Ned Kelly, despite his crimes. The phrase has transcended time and continues to be a site of pilgrimage and reverence for many Australians.
The Legacy of Last Words
Last words are often immortalized for their honesty, humor, or historical significance. They can provide a glimpse into a person's personality and the era in which they lived. Whether tragic, humorous, or memorable, the tales of these final moments offer a fascinating insight into the characters of King George V and Ned Kelly.
King George V's playful wish for his final word to be associated with Basingstoke represents a touching end to a complex life. Similarly, Ellen Kelly's final words to Ned Kelly inspire a sense of pride and historical fascination. The stories of last words from prominent figures, no matter how trivial they may seem, offer a unique perspective on the highs and lows of human existence.