Appreciation on 'Invictus' in paragraph format
Answers
Answer:
'Invictus' poem by "William Ernest Henley" is a powerful poem it is all about showing courage in face of death. It is also about a strong will to survive with dignity and face many hardships. The poet stresses that he is alone responsible for all the actions he does. My favorite lines of the poem are"I am the master of my fate I am the captain of my soul. "An example of the figure of speech is personification. The sentence is " In the fell clutch of circumstance."The Poem is different because intense emotions with strong words are used several times. Our actions are the result of our own feelings and hence we must take responsibility for everything that happens in our life. I like this poem as it has very memorable lines.
Explanation:
Answer:
Invictus' is a poem which focuses on the human spirit and its ability to overcome adversity. It is a rallying cry for those who find themselves in dark and trying situations, who have to dig deep and fight for their lives. The poet certainly knew hard times and needed all his strength to battle against disease.
Born in Gloucester, England in 1849, he was diagnosed with tubercular arthritis at the age of 12 and went through years of pain and discomfort.
W.E. Henley wrote 'Invictus' some years later whilst in hospital undergoing treatment for tuberculosis of the bones, specifically those in his left leg, which had to be amputated from the knee down. He was still only a young man at this time.
He managed to save his right leg by refusing surgery and seeking an alternative form of treatment from a Scottish doctor, James Lister.
It was during his time in Edinburgh that Henley met the writer Robert Louis Stevenson. They became friends and corresponded on a regular basis. Stevenson later admitted that he had based his character Long John Silver—from the book Treasure Island—on Henley, he having a wooden leg, a strong rasping voice and a forceful personality.
'Invictus' does contain passion and defiance and it is easy to see just why so many use the powerful lines to drum up courage and to shed light into the darker corners when all else fails.
Written in 1875 and published in 1888, it retains its original power and conviction, the simple rhyme scheme tightening the lines and making them memorable.
Henley's personal experience on the operating table and in a hospital bed, facing possible death, certainly helped him create one of the most popular poems in the English language.