“If—” is a famous poem written by Rudyard Kipling, first published in 1910. The poem is written in the form of paternal advice to the poet’s son, and it imparts timeless wisdom and moral values.
If- by Rudyard Kipling Poem Summary-It presents a series of hypothetical situations and encourages the reader to navigate life’s challenges with integrity, resilience, and self-control.
If- by Rudyard Kipling Poem SummaryThe poem begins with the line “If you can keep your head when all about you/Are losing theirs and blaming it on you.” Here, Kipling emphasizes the importance of maintaining composure and level-headedness in the face of chaos and blame.
If- by Rudyard Kipling Poem Summary-He goes on to describe the qualities of a virtuous individual, including being able to trust oneself but not be overly confident, persevering in the face of adversity, being humble in victory, and demonstrating kindness and compassion towards others.
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If- by Rudyard Kipling Poem Summary-Throughout the poem, Kipling highlights the significance of maintaining one’s integrity and staying true to oneself, even when faced with temptation or when others may doubt or criticize.
If- by Rudyard Kipling Poem Summary-He emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions, being honest, and learning from mistakes. Kipling also underscores the value of patience, determination, and self-discipline, urging the reader to stay focused on their goals without being discouraged by setbacks.
If- by Rudyard Kipling Poem Summary-The poem concludes with the lines “Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it,/And—which is more—you’ll be a Man, my son!” These lines reinforce the idea that by embodying the virtues and qualities described throughout the poem, the reader will not only find success and happiness but also become a person of character and substance.
If- by Rudyard Kipling Poem Summary-Overall, “If—” by Rudyard Kipling serves as a moral compass, offering guidance on how to navigate life’s challenges and urging the reader to strive for personal growth and integrity. It has resonated with readers for over a century, inspiring individuals to embody its timeless values.
If— Poem
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 wornout 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!
Conclusion
If- by Rudyard Kipling Poem Summary“If—” by Rudyard Kipling is a powerful and enduring poem that imparts timeless wisdom and moral values.
It offers guidance on how to navigate life’s challenges with integrity, resilience, and self-control.
If- by Rudyard Kipling Poem Summary-Kipling’s words resonate with readers by emphasizing the importance of maintaining composure, staying true to oneself, and demonstrating virtues such as patience, perseverance, and humility.
If- by Rudyard Kipling Poem Summary-The poem serves as a moral compass, inspiring individuals to strive for personal growth and character.
If- by Rudyard Kipling Poem Summary“If—” continues to be cherished and quoted for its profound and universal messages, reminding us of the qualities that define a person of substance.
FAQ.
Q: Who is the author of the poem “If—”?
A: The author of the poem “If—” is Rudyard Kipling.
Q: When was the poem “If—” published?
A: The poem “If—” was first published in 1910.
Q: What is the theme of the poem “If—”?
A: The poem “If—” explores themes of integrity, resilience, self-control, and moral values. It offers guidance on how to navigate life’s challenges and emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and embodying virtuous qualities.
Q: Why is “If—” considered a famous poem?
A: “If—” is considered a famous poem due to its enduring popularity and the timeless wisdom it imparts. The poem’s themes and messages resonate with readers of all ages and have made a lasting impact since its publication.
Q: Who is the intended audience of the poem “If—”?
A: The poem “If—” is written as paternal advice to the poet’s son. However, its messages and guidance are applicable to a wider audience, making it relatable and relevant to readers of various backgrounds and ages.
Q: How has “If—” impacted readers?
A: “If—” has impacted readers by inspiring and motivating them to live by its moral values and principles. It has served as a source of guidance and encouragement for individuals facing challenges in their lives, reminding them of the importance of integrity, perseverance, and self-control.
