About W.E.Henley and his poem INVICTUS.

William Ernest Henley and Invictus.

Invictus is a poem which focuses on the human spirit and its ability to overcome adversity. It is a rallying cry to those who find themselves in dark and trying situations, who have to dig deep and fight for their lives. The poet certainly knew hard times and needed all his strength to battle against the disease.

Born in Gloucestershire, England in 1849, he was diagnosed with tubercular arthritis at the age of 12 and went through years of pain and discomfort.

W. E. Henley wrote Invictus whilst in the hospital undergoing treatment for tuberculosis of the bones specifically those in his left leg, which had to be amputated from the knee down, he was still only a young man at this time.

He managed to save his right leg by refusing surgery and seeking an alternative form of treatment from a Scottish doctor, James Lister.

It was during his time in Edinburgh that Henley met the writer, Robert Louis Stevenson. They became friends and corresponded on a regular basis. Stevenson later admitted that he had based his character, Long John Silver - from the book Treasure Island - on Henley, he has a wooden leg, a strong rasping voice and forceful personality.

Invictus does contain passion and defiance and it is easy to see just why so many use the power lines to drum up courage and to shed light into the darker corners when all else fails. Written in 1875 and published in 1888. It retains its original power and conviction.

Henley’s personal experience on the operating table and in a hospital bed, facing possible death, certainly helped him create one of the most popular poems in the English language.

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 or 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.