If by Rudyard Kipling for class seven, New Curriculum, 2023, English

If

by Rudyard Kipling

 

 (1865 – 1936) an English novelist, short-story writer, poet, and journalist

‘If you can make one heap of all your winnings

And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,

And lose, and start again at your beginnings

And never breathe a word about your loss;

If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew

To serve your turn long after they are gone,

And so hold on when there is nothing in you

Except the Will which says to them: ‘Hold on!’

 

Word Meanings

Pitch and toss- a gambling game

Sinew – (noun) strong band of tissue in the body connecting a muscle to a bone

Except - not including

Hold on – to not give up

 

Summary of the poem 'If' by Rudyard Kipling:

Rudyard Kipling's poem "If" is about the qualities and virtues that a person should possess to navigate through life successfully. It describes various situations and challenges, highlighting the importance of perseverance, humility, and inner strength.

 

The first stanza talks about the ability to gather wealth and take risks with it, without thinking much about the outcome. It emphasizes the importance of starting over and not dwelling on past losses.

 

The second stanza speaks to the idea of pushing oneself beyond physical and mental limits, continuing to strive even when faced with exhaustion or adversity. It encourages holding on and not giving up, relying on the willpower to endure.

 

Overall, the poem encourages readers to remain determined, resilient, and focused, regardless of the difficulties they encounter. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, facing challenges with courage, and never losing hope.

 

Dear readers,

Please, never hesitate to comment because your comment inspires me much to write. Moreover, any correction regarding the writings will be largely appreciated and valued, and you can ask me any grammatical question regarding English. I promise I would try my best to assist you, all. Thank you very much.

 Prepared by

Md. Saiful Alam

BA Honours, BEd (1^st Class) and MA in English

An MPO registered Assistant Teacher of English

Machkhola Secondary School, Satkhira

Email: suman64924@gamil.com