Many want me though I am never kept. I was lost when the king forever slept.

The solution to this clever riddle hinges on understanding a universally desired, yet often fleeting, state of being. The first line, "Many want me though I am never kept," speaks to the pervasive human longing for tranquility and stability. Throughout history, societies and individuals alike have yearned for a world free from conflict and distress, but achieving and sustaining such a state has proven perpetually challenging. It is rarely a permanent fixture; it requires constant effort, negotiation, and often, sacrifice, making it something that is frequently sought but difficult to hold onto indefinitely.

The second part of the riddle, "I was lost when the king forever slept," points to historical realities where the death of a monarch often plunged nations into turmoil. The passing of a ruler could trigger succession crises, power struggles among ambitious heirs, or even outright wars as rival factions vied for control. In such times, the stability and harmony of the realm were shattered, and the peaceful order that existed under the previous reign was irrevocably lost. This historical pattern underscores how fragile it can be, particularly when leadership transitions are not handled smoothly or when external pressures are high.

Ultimately, the answer represents not just the absence of war, but also a deeper sense of calm and well-being. It is a concept that resonates personally as an inner quietude, and globally as a harmonious coexistence between peoples. Its value is often most acutely felt in its absence, reminding us of its profound importance in both individual lives and the grand sweep of human history. The riddle cleverly captures this elusive yet essential aspect of the human experience, highlighting its desirability and its inherent impermanence.