Exemplary Courage, Indomitable Spirit

By Sumit Paul, New Age Islam 23 August 2025 August 23 is the birth anniversary of William Ernest Henley. Despite being a highly influential poet and writer, most people are surprised to learn that William Ernest Henley's work is often overshadowed by his most famous poem, "Invictus." This poem gained immense popularity after it was quoted by Nelson Mandela during his time in prison. He's known for his indomitable courage and spirit. One of his famous statements is, " In the fell clutch of circumstance, I have not winced nor cried aloud." It portrays an individual who stands unwaveringly in the face of challenging circumstances, refusing to succumb to fear or despair. Henley's choice of words, such as "fell clutch," conjures up images of a tight grip or a fierce struggle, emphasizing the intensity of the challenges faced. This individual demonstrates a remarkable ability to persevere with grace and courage, not allowing the circumstances to break their spirit. Instead of yielding to despair, they choose to confront their difficulties head-on, refusing to show weakness or vulnerability. Through this quote, Henley encourages us to face life's challenges with bravery and resilience, reminding us that our response to adversity is what truly defines us. This reminds me of two famous Urdu couplets, " Zindagi Jahad-E-Musalsal Hai Tamasha Toh Nahin/ Jeene Wale Hi Rahte Hain Toofaan Ke Qareeb" (Life is a continuous strife, not a charade/ Only the courageous ones constantly live with the storms) and "Phenk De Chahe Havadis Raah Se Har Baar Door/ Jayegi Zindagi Kahan Jab Zindagi Manzil Mein Hai" (Let the mishaps derail you from the path to success/ Where else will life go when life and destination are woven together). Josh Malihabadi expressed the same spirit and sentiment in one of his famous quatrains, " Tujh Se Jo Phiregi Toh Kidhar Jayegi/ Le Jayega Jis Simt Udhar Jayegi/ Duniya Ke Havadis Se Na Ghabra Ke Ye Umra/ Jis Tarah Guzaarega, Guzar Jayegi " (Where else will life go if it leaves you/ It'll go whichever way you steer it to/ Don't feel defeated by the mishaps / Life obeys you by following your diktats). It's worthwhile to mention that Henley suffered from tuberculosis as a young boy, which eventually led to the amputation of his leg at the age of 25. Despite this life-altering experience, he did not let it dampen his spirit. This is evident in the defiant and empowering tone of "Invictus," which he wrote while recovering in the hospital. Despite his literary success, Henley's personal life had its fair share of challenges. He faced financial difficulties, marital issues, and the loss of several loved ones, including two of his children. However, he never let his personal struggles hinder his creative output, and his perseverance serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit. It was because of his never-say-die spirit, he could write, " Under the bludgeonings of chance my head is bloody, but unbowed." It speaks to a perseverance that refuses to be broken by the harsh circumstances and challenges that life often presents. The imagery of a bloodied head signifies the scars and wounds endured through life's trials; however, the head remains upright, refusing to submit or be defeated. Henley's words inspire resilience, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, we can find the strength to endure and push forward. It is a testament to the human spirit and the incredible ability to rise above our circumstances, emerging stronger and undefeated. Urdu poet Asghar Gondvi's couplet encapsulates it, " Go Hayaat Ne Kamar Tod Dee / Mere Jazbe Ko Woh Tod Na Saki " (Though life broke my spine, it couldn't break my spirit). ----- A regular columnist for New Age Islam, Sumit Paul is a researcher in comparative religions, with special reference to Islam. He has contributed articles to the world's premier publications in several languages including Persian. URl: https://www.newageislam.com/spiritual-meditations/exemplary-courage-indomitable-spirit/d/136573 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism