You see me and take a pause. Yet you also use me to remember times near and far. Students know me well as they watch the clock. As a matter of fact, you see me now.

A shattered visage, proud, austere, In desert sands, my name appears. Though kings once feared my vast command, Now I am but crumbled sand.

My infamy I must defend By burning of my whiskers’ end Buccaneering is what I teach And I’ve shipwrecked on an eastern beach

Men must rise and men must fall, then rise again to speak to all. On whispered breath around a fire, I'm told to young and old. Look for me at land's end, to understand the scroll you hold.

In ancient lore, I shant be trusted. I bring life to lands encrusted. Rivers share a common trait, my nectar peddled to mend your fate. A queen's demise my kiss provides, in this riddle you must surmise.