Percy Bysshe Shelley was one of the most highly regarded and influential poets of the 19th century.

Shelley's poem "Ozymandias" famously describes a ruined statue of an ancient king in an empty desert.

This ambiquous verse carries within its lines much hidden meaning. It hints at weighty philosophical issues; the poet uses the shattered statue to highlight the ephemeral nature of fame, vanity and power.

Nothing lasts forever. Glory, reputation, even conquests - everything will come to an end eventually.