Invictus
abracad, · Categories: wise wordsInvictus was written in 1875 by William Ernest Henley after he lost a foot to TB. It was said to have inspired former South African throughout his long imprisonment, and more recently was quoted as an inspiration by embattled British leader Gordon Brown.
Its message is that of overcoming adversity and the ultimate triumph of the inner Spirit over the troublesome, but ultimately insignificant trials of external reality.
Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds and shall find me unafraid.
It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.
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