Which poem begins with the following lines ?
'In the city of which I sing
There was a just and placid king.'

Question

Accepted Answer

The poem that begins with the lines "In the city of which I sing / There was a just and placid king" is indeed "The Tale of Melon City" by Vikram Seth.

Here's why:

*   **Option 1: The Tale of Melon City by Vikram Seth (Correct):** The poem "The Tale of Melon City" is a narrative poem known for its simple language and satirical tone. The opening lines directly match the provided lines, establishing the setting and introducing the central theme of justice and the king in a whimsical manner. The poem proceeds to tell the story of how the king's sense of justice leads to his own execution and the eventual selection of a melon as the ruler of the city.

Here's why the other options are incorrect:

*   **Option 2: In the Bazaars of Hyderabad by Sarojini Naidu (Incorrect):** "In the Bazaars of Hyderabad" is a descriptive poem that focuses on the vibrant sights, sounds, and goods found in the bazaars of Hyderabad. It uses vivid imagery and sensory details to paint a picture of the bustling marketplace. The poem does not begin with the lines provided and has a completely different thematic focus.

*   **Option 3: Ajamil and the Tigers by Arun Kolatkar (Incorrect):** "Ajamil and the Tigers" is a poem that likely explores themes of fear, survival, and the relationship between humans and nature. Without the full text of the poem, it's difficult to provide a detailed analysis, but it's highly improbable that it begins with the lines given, as the subject matter and tone are likely very different.

*   **Option 4: Keeping Quiet by Pablo Neruda (Incorrect):** "Keeping Quiet" is a poem that advocates for a moment of silence and introspection to promote peace and understanding. It focuses on the idea of ceasing activity and reflecting on the consequences of human actions. The poem's opening lines and overall theme are vastly different from the lines provided.