Invictus Comparison

At some point in the numerous journeys we embark on, we hit an obstacle and we feel all hope is lost. Sometimes we give up before any progress, and sometimes we give up right before we make it to the finish line, despite putting in so much effort to achieve it. Through Invictus by William Ernest Henley and If by Rudyard Kipling, it is shown that “if you can keep your head”, “yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it”. Both texts insinuate that success comes from commitment and a true sense of endurance. We must not lose heart because of doubts or conflict. This may appear difficult to comprehend during times of struggle, but despite this, Invictus and If communicate that you must hold on to your strong will, morals, and values in order to surpass obstacles.
Henley and Kipling insist on endurance being the pathway leading to successful endeavours. Whether this be surpassing the human quality of blaming others and comprising the courage to take blame for our own wrongdoings, or gathering enough confidence to believe in our potential even if all may seem impossible. Despite shared ideals, a distinctive element is the means in which readers are informed on how to persevere. Within …show more content…
Core emotions in Invictus include gloominess, which is due to the choice of words, although the speaker’s attitude is optimistic. ‘Gloomy’ words like “night”, “black” and “pit”, in the first quatrain set the mood for the poem. This mood is consistent throughout the poem with words like “tears”, “fell”, “horror” and “menace”. The obscure sounding of the word “bludgeoning” in the seventh line evoke a gloomy and menacing image, providing a sombre mood. If reflects strong courage undeterred by the struggles one has. Courage and hope are evoked in Invictus as readers are urged to understand that hardship will not terminate ones perseverance. These previously mentioned emotions remain present for the duration of both