Question

Summary of the poem invictus by william ernest henley

Answer 1

"Invictus" was written by the English poet William Ernest Henley. The poem is a short Victorian, written in 1875 and published in 1888. ... In order to completely understand the meaning of this poem, it is important to know the life of William Ernest Henley. As a young boy, Henley developed tuberculosis of the bone.

Answer 2

Answer:

“Invictus” begins with the author stating everything is dark and black, yet the speaker still thanks God for having an “unconquerable soul”. The second stanza reiterates this by stating he “fell clutch of circumstance” but his head is “unbowed”. The next stanza has the speaker discussing “beyond this place” with him describing it as the “Horror of the shade”.

For the finale, the speaker says no matter how “strait the gate” or of the “punishments the scroll”, the speaker is still the master of his fate and soul.

The poet is describing how he had a hard life. He has encountered many troubles and circumstances, but has never given up even after being pushed up by these evil troubles. After his life has been beaten down, he still feels strong and hopeful.

Explanation: