At my lowest ebb...

[Flarter]

During those times in my life that I have been at my lowest ebb, this poem has comforted and supported me. It is called 'Invictus' and is by William Ernest Henley (1849 - 1903).

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 cried or winced 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 menance of the years,
Finds, and shall find me unafraid.

It matters not how straight the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.


I think that is some of the most stirring writing I have ever read, and I hope this tells you guys something about me.

[Diva]

I really like this poem. The odd part is that I first heard it after the Timothy McVeigh (http://www.nochicktrix.com/forum/showthread.php?p=7987#post7987) execution.

I love to read poetry, as you can see from this forum. :) It's amazing how the right words can help us to lift our heads and carry on. Thank you for sharing this one. :)

[Flarter]

I really like this poem. The odd part is that I first heard it after the Timothy McVeigh (http://www.nochicktrix.com/forum/showthread.php?p=7987#post7987) execution.
I am mortified that 'my' poem was abused by that individual, was it read on his behalf by someone?

This is a poem that is supposed to express mankinds indomitable spirit in facing the evils that are sent to subdue or overwhelm him. It is not for the likes of that lunatic.

[Diva]

I know. I have come to accept that there arent many 'pure evil' people in this world. There have been people who I despise, yet they have friends and loved ones.

I really liked the poem and hated that he 'tainted' it. I'm very glad that you posted it because now I can assosciate it with someone good. :) The meaning was not lost in how he meant it... What he didnt get was that he was the evil we fight to overcome.