Hardhip As Depicted In Henley's Poem 'Invictus'

Frustration. Agony. Hardship. These factors fabricated her entire existence. Obstacle after obstacle wore down her spirit, yet, her spirit remained intact. No matter how corrupt the world was around her, she managed to shine through the darkness like she was a diamond in the night. Many people wondered how someone so burdened could manage to radiate positive light like she did. They did not realize that she had a source of motivation and inspiration that kept her thriving. This source drove her to overcome every obstacle that obstructed her path. As shown by this woman, humans have a tendency to cling to an object or idea to help them endure the complications that they face. For example, William Ernest Henley relied on literature to support him through his troubles. He wrote a poem called “Invictus” after a difficult experience that nearly destroyed him (Hess). …show more content…
He endured this disease throughout his adolescence, and by the time he was twenty-five, Henley’s tuberculosis was in his foot. As an attempt to save his life, the doctors amputated his leg up to his knee. While he was in the hospital, Henley decided to write a poem to describe the battle he was fighting. He left the poem untitled, but it was later titled “Invictus.” The poem he wrote described the obstacles he faced during his childhood, but it also described his spirit and soul. In the poem he states, “...my unconquerable soul,” which demonstrates the strength of Henley’s soul. Even though, he faced many barriers in his life, Henley remained invincible. The things in his past may have destroyed him physically, but it would not traumatize him mentally for the future