He sat alone upon his golden throne
This boy destiny made
Generations worshiped him alone
The Emperor of all he surveyed.
Forbidden City, where he played
Became his home
His world inside displayed
A magical lie, a golden dome.
Eunuchs were his only friends
They answered all his needs
Bathing, dressing, simple mends
Whipped by him, collar and leads.
He grew to manhood,
His wife Wanrong by his side
Emperor Pu Yi stood
Surveying the city, approaching red tide.
He longed to be outside the gates
Bored with all he knew
Beijing beckoned with all fates
Decadent luxury known by few.
Pu Yi chafed to leave his home
The gates were opened for him
A war criminal; made to atone
Ten years imprisoned; paid for sin.
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Author Notes
The Last Emperor of China, Pu Yi, reigned from March 1934 - August 1945. After his ten year stint in prison he became a gardener and died 17 October 1967. You can visit the Forbidden City where he spent his days. The People's Republic of China took over after Pu Yi was forced to abdicate. For more information please go to Wikipedia.
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