These two findings are a true study in contrasts -- Invictus by William Ernest Henley and My Captain by Dorothea Day. The famous poem Invictus has been used to inspire everything from humanistic lofty goals, like that of Nelson Mandela, former president of South Africa, to prideful, "in your face" statements like that of Timothy McVeigh, the Oklahoma City bomber.
Timothy McVeigh chose the poem as his final (written) statement before being executed. Nelson Mandela, incarcerated for anti-apartheid activities, was encouraged by it to rise above his circumstances.
Take a look at the poem for yourself:
INVICTUS 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.
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