Poem Of The Day
"If—” by Rudyard Kipling
Dear Readers,
I am thrilled to bring you the first edition of my literary newsletter, focused on one of the most iconic poems of our time - "If—” by Rudyard Kipling. This powerful and inspiring poem has captivated audiences for generations and continues to be a source of inspiration and guidance for people around the world.
In this edition, we will be exploring the message and significance of "If—”, delving into its themes of self-mastery, perseverance, and integrity. We will also be discussing its relevance to our daily lives and how its timeless wisdom can help us navigate the challenges and responsibilities of our roles as students.
I also believe that this newsletter will provide you with valuable insights and a deeper appreciation for this classic work of literature. Whether you are a seasoned admirer of Kipling's work or a newcomer to "If—”, I am confident that you will find this edition informative and inspiring.
So grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let's delve into the timeless world of "If—” by Rudyard Kipling
Rudyard Kipling (1865-1936) was an English poet, short-story writer, and novelist who was born in Bombay, India. He is best known for his works such as the poems "If—” and "Gunga Din," and the children's story "The Jungle Book." Kipling's writing is characterized by its use of verse and prose that often reflects his colonial experiences and observations of British imperial life in India. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1907, becoming the first English-language writer to receive the honour.
Here is the text of Rudyard Kipling's poem "If—":
If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too;
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated, don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:
If you can dream—and not make dreams your master;
If you can think—and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:
If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breathe a word about your loss;
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: 'Hold on!'
If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with Kings—nor lose the common touch,
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you,
If all men count with you, but none too much;
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And—which is more—you'll be a Man, my son!
Analysis of the poem
"If—” by Rudyard Kipling is a highly acclaimed poem that offers advice and guidance for how to live a successful and virtuous life. The poem is written in rhyming couplets and presents a series of conditional statements that describe the qualities and characteristics of a person who has achieved self-mastery and inner peace.
The poem begins by addressing the reader and suggesting that if one can maintain composure and self-confidence in the face of adversity, one will have succeeded where others have failed. It encourages the reader to trust their own judgment, even when others doubt them, and to remain honest and true to their principles, even when others lie or spread false rumours about them.
The second stanza of the poem focuses on the importance of perseverance and determination. The speaker advises the reader to have the courage to pursue their dreams, even in the face of setbacks and obstacles, and to remain steadfast in their beliefs, even when they are challenged by others. The stanza also touches on the importance of humility and the ability to accept both success and failure with grace.
The third stanza of the poem emphasizes the importance of resilience and the ability to pick oneself up and start again after experiencing loss or failure. The speaker encourages the reader to be brave and to keep going, even when there is nothing left in them except their willpower.
The final stanza of the poem focuses on the importance of social skills and the ability to maintain one's virtue and integrity in the company of others. The speaker suggests that if the reader can interact with people of all classes and backgrounds while retaining their sense of humility and dignity, they will be truly successful and respected by all.
As we come to the conclusion of our latest newsletter, we hope that you have found it informative and inspiring. "If—” by Rudyard Kipling is a powerful and timeless work of literature that offers valuable lessons on self-mastery, perseverance, and integrity. Its message continues to resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds, reminding us of the importance of staying true to our principles and beliefs, even in the face of adversity.
I would like to thank you for joining me on this journey as we explored the relevance and significance of "If—” to our daily lives. I hope that the insights and wisdom contained in this newsletter will serve as a source of inspiration and guidance for you in your future endeavours.
I look forward to continuing to bring you the latest in literary news and analysis in future editions of the newsletter. Until then, I wish you all the best in your personal pursuits.
Warm regards,
Abdussamad