Poetry's representation of life's pivotal moments and personal change

Kipling & Paquin

Kipling, Paquin and Adulthood

Rudyard Kipling's poem If and Diane Paquin's poem On Growing Up both examine the difficulties one faces while transitioning into adulthood. If is a litany of the attributes one must acquire in order to be a man. On Growing Up is a reminder of the courage one must possess to face the difficulties life throws at you along the way.

These poems can be interpreted as both inspirational and cautionary. Kipling's poem is written to his son, but the lessons are for everyone. The work says if you can keep your head and focus on your goals and dreams then "Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it, And -- which is more -- you'll be a man my son!" (Lines 31-32). Paquin's poem speaks to the fortitude it takes to stay true to yourself and not let the daily grind of life wear you down and divert you from accomplishing your goals. Her pronouncement that "It takes courage to face the threatening storm, to go through pouring rain and bolting flashes which make you want to run and hide til the rainbows appear once more…" (Lines 1-2) speaks to the importance of facing life's challenges head on. Neither poem promises an easy life, but promote living bravely in the face of daunting events.

In today's society we all face many obstacles that deter us from living a happy fulfilled life. No one knows what the future will bring and many live their lives in fear. My grandmother once told me "growing old is not for sissies." These poems reflect that sentiment. They teach us that if we can muster the courage our lives will have meaning.

While it is true that each generation benefits from the efforts of previous generations, each generation must also deal with the mistakes of their forefathers. It is what it is. And I believe what happens is not nearly as important as how you deal with what happens.

The current global economic crisis as well as the environmental damage we have done to the planet may be overwhelming to each of us as individuals. It is easy to lose the light of hope in the face of the darkness. The urge to give up and accept what may seem inevitable is strong: what can what I do that will make a difference?

However, I feel this is a message of despair. These poems teach us that we all have the power to prevail in the face of adversity. Failure, like success is a choice. Paquin writes "It takes courage to dig deep into the earth and see the crawling bugs that destroy…" (Line 5). We must see ourselves as we are, warts and all.