Answer:
Kipling's poem "If-" and Colon's memoir "Kipling and I" are both literary works that explore universal themes of morality, personal development, and the complexity of human nature. These works, despite being written in different literary forms, offer valuable insights into the human condition and provide guidance on how to navigate the challenges of life.
One universal theme evident in both "If-" and "Kipling and I" is morality. In "If-," Kipling imparts moral wisdom through a series of conditional statements that highlight the importance of integrity and resilience. For instance, Kipling writes, "If you can keep your head when all about you / Are losing theirs and blaming it on you" (1-2). This evidence shows Kipling's emphasis on moral fortitude and the need to remain composed in the face of adversity.
Similarly, in "Kipling and I," Colon reflects on how Kipling's writing influenced his own sense of morality. Colon discusses how Kipling's work served as a moral guide for him, shaping his understanding of right and wrong. For example, Colon states, "Kipling was my moral guide" (Colon, p. 4). This evidence highlights the theme of morality and the impact of literature in shaping one's moral compass.
Another universal theme present in both works is personal development. In "If-," Kipling encourages the reader to strive for self-improvement and to persevere in the face of challenges. He writes, "If you can make one heap of all your winnings / And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss" (11-12), emphasizing the importance of taking calculated risks and learning from failures as part of personal growth.
In "Kipling and I," Colon reflects on how Kipling's writing inspired his own personal development. He discusses how Kipling's stories and poems motivated him to work for excellence and for a sense of self-respect. Colon states, "Kipling's words made me feel I had a dignity of my own" (Colon, p. 5). This evidence shows the theme of personal development and the transformative power of literature in shaping an individuals character.
Furthermore, both "If-" and "Kipling and I" delve into the complexity of human nature. In "If-," Kipling acknowledges the contradictions and challenges individuals may face in their pursuit of moral and personal excellence. He writes, "If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster / And treat those two impostors just the same" (23-24), emphasizing the need to maintain equanimity in the face of both success and failure, highlighting the complex nature of human emotions and experiences.
In "Kipling and I," Colon reflects on Kipling's own complexities as a writer and a person. Colon discusses how Kipling's work was both inspiring and controversial, and how his perceptions of Kipling evolved over time. Colon states, "Kipling was a complicated man, and not always a sympathetic one" (Colon, p. 6). This evidence reveals the multifaceted nature of human beings, including their contradictions and imperfections.
In conclusion, Kipling's poem "If-" and Colon's memoir "Kipling and I" share universal themes of morality, personal development, and the complexity of human nature. Through their didactic poetry and personal reflections, these works offer valuable insights into the human condition and provide guidance on navigating life's challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
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