The first had lines that grouped two lines together except the last four lines. This stanza is structured in a manner that is different from the first. To even be quiet about who one truly is and not put it on display with arrogance. In the last lines, the reader is also told to have patience and to not stoop to the level of those who lie or hate.

To trudge on with what is right no matter what one has to face from the people around – even if everyone doubts or lies to the reader. The reader is encouraged to have a balance of humility, along with having wisdom and understanding. The poem encourages the reader to have self-trust and an ability to press on even in the face of lies and doubts. It seems as if the poem is a long sentence that ends on a high note. The reader is told that it is essential to keep a level head and not blame people or situations. The poem opens with the scenario of the ‘if’ the poem is all about. This poem was written after he himself took inspiration from Leander Starr Jameson and his actions. He spent a lot of time in British India as he was born there after all. Yet, he himself was an imperialist who supported the colonisation of the British Empire that he was a part of. He wrote about what one must do to be a ‘Man’ of valour, courage, virtue and strength. However, it is interesting to note the irony of the poem and the poet. Students can also check the English Summary to revise with them during exam preparation. Multiple scenarios and hard truths of life are presented to the reader, and the reader is encouraged to do what is right and persevere, no matter how difficult it may be. This poem is beautifully structured and leaves the answers to all his ‘ifs’ until the last two lines, which are powerful indeed.

It is placed in the player’s entrance and has left its mark on many since it was written. In fact, it is interesting to know that a line from the very poem hangs at the Centre Court Wimbledon in England. It was first published in 1910 and is one that has held the attention of people to date. If Rudyard Kipling Analysis: ‘If’ is a poem by Rudyard Kipling that is considered by many to be one of the most inspirational poems written.

If poem by rudyard kipling