Finding hope

I know 'Invictus' is quite a hard poem for children. However, mine know it really well because I love this poem and I normally use it in relation to my brain haemorrhage.

This poem is perfect for now and really sums up the current pandemic. Without going through it like a bad poetry critique it is all about resilience, hope and courage.

On a separate note, two years ago my son got through to the semi final of a school talent show reciting it.

I'm trying to encourage my children to do a different poem this year but I doubt either will end up doing it as they care more what other people think now...

Invictus by William Ernest Henley

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.