The Uncrowned King

"The Uncrowned King" by Harold Bell Wright is a novel written in the early 20th century. This philosophical tale reflects on the concept of true kingship, identity, and the significance of inner truth versus outward appearances. Through allegorical storytelling, the book explores themes of personal sacrifice and the nature of leadership, suggesting that true authority lies not in titles or crowns but in one’s character and choices. The narrative follows twin brothers, Really-Is and Seemsto-Be, in the Royal City of Daybyday. As they embark on a journey to the City Sometime in the Land of Yettocome, they grapple with their identities as potential rulers. The story unfolds as Seemsto-Be rushes to claim the throne for himself, driven by ambition, while Really-Is, the rightful heir, learns from Wisdom about the nature of true kingship. Ultimately, the tale contrasts the shallow pursuits symbolized by Seemsto-Be against the deeper understanding and humility of Really-Is, revealing profound insights about faith, authenticity, and the essence of leadership as Really-Is embraces his role as the 'Uncrowned King' who leads with understanding and compassion, free from the trappings of power. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Harold Bell Wright was a best-selling American writer of fiction, essays, and nonfiction. Although mostly forgotten or ignored after the middle of the 20th century, he had a very successful career; he is said to have been the first American writer to sell a million copies of a novel and the first to make $1 million from writing fiction. Between 1902 and 1942 Wright wrote 19 books, several stage plays, and many magazine articles. More than 15 movies were made or claimed to be made from Wright's stories, including Gary Cooper's first major movie, The Winning of Barbara Worth (1926) and the John Wayne film The Shepherd of the Hills (1941).