@@charlie-obrien I hope, that I understood the message of this Poem. ...There is always hope, but only in Heavens Realm. On Earth it very often seizes to exist.
@@charlie-obrien Probably, the way I addressed Sir Michael Cane was unceremonious and impertinent... Probably, Sir Michael knew the original handwritten script... I am a total idiot.
I found this poem in the back of my Dads phone case after he sadly died Christmas day 2019. It summed him up perfectly, he was such a beautiful special man, I read it out for him at his funeral and hopefully made him proud. His name was Anthony Vincent Flynn. He was my hero.
I am certain he would have been incredibly proud to have heard you recite this poem in his memory. More so, if it was as dear to him as it is to so many of us.
Many years ago, my daughter had to read poem to her class. I suggested that she should read this one. She read it to me from my book of Kipling's verse and I helped her to put what might be called "feeling" into her reading. After school the next day I asked how it had gone. She smiled and said that the teacher had stopped her, gone out of the classroom and returned with other staff members to listen to her read it again from the beginning. Her mother and I are immensely proud of her for that and so much more.
I first read this poem when I was sixteen. I am 74 now. It has always moved me and guided me, and hearing it read by the great Michael Caine... well, it just doesn't get any better.
It's worth noting that Sir Kipling's verse makes no mention of heroism, or of bravery. Not a word is given in praise of courage, or ambition, or achievement. The values are those of what we might call "the courage of living": to be humble, steadfast, confident, trustworthy, reasonable, merciful, and persistent- among other things.
I am here bawling like a baby. I read this at my Daddy's memorial. He sat all my siblings and I down to read this poem, when we became teens. We have reflected upon it in our adulthood. Now, I share it with my children. I hear my dad's voice in this poem. I came to hear Michael's voice reading it though. Thank you
This reminds me of the 1975 film The Man Who Would Be King, Michael Caine with Sean Connery director John Huston. I can imagine myself in India stood next to Kipling/ Christopher Plummer while Peachy Carnehan/ Michael Caine tells his story or in the film Zulu but not Batman talking to Alfred.
this poem is a summary of stoicism, a reflection of life's truth and a simple warning --not to chase after the mirage of society's standard and lose your 'virtue'. Don't do it.
I do like the way that Sir Michael gives us 20 seconds to ourselves! (The line actually reads; “If you can fill the unforgiving minute with sixty seconds’ worth of distance run.”)
But Kipling wrote 60, and he still has the final word. Sir Michael also messed up another line. "If you can hear the truth you've spoken twisted. . . " eviscerates the true line "If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken. . . ." Sad thing is there are two different UA-cam recordings and he makes the same errors in both--and he's holding a book with the proper lines in front of his face in the other video.
@@walterdennon4342 Walter, the other video is just this same one overlaid with some crappy images and syrupy background music. When it comes to the mistakes, I forgive him, because neither changes the theme or the heart of the poem and it is still his very earnest recitation that evokes so much of the imagery of Kipling's words.
I've never been able to hear this poem without crying, there's something about the cadence of it that just causes all the feeling to rush up into my chest.
I would also suggest Andrew, that if this poem resonates with you so profoundly, then perhaps it is emotionally ‘true’ to you. As in to say, you feel the weight of this poem’s message because you have lived by its creed. Keep being a good man, and may the Universe bless you brother.
This brings tears to my eyes every time I read it, if I ever have a son, I will post this on his wall at a very young age. Not a single passage in the English language has influenced me so much as this, it is so true, in the most beautiful way.
I lost my dad a few years back very unexpectedly. He turned me on to Kipling when I was very little. Every time I watch this I ball my eyes out. If you ever have a child the simple thought that you'd post this beautiful poem in his room speaks volumes about what a great father you'd be.
chuckfish6 _ I’m 44 my dad put this poem on my bedroom wall when I was a child. It resonates with me now as it did then every time I walked past it. It’s 11/01/20 I lost my dad last week and held his hand when he passed. I have a 6 year old son and it’s going on his wall. If we can all do 20% of this poem we’d be getting on just fine. Best wishes Ol ✌️
When I first read this poem I was 11 at my dads wedding, everytime I'm going through something, he reminds me to read/listen to it again, I always do, and it never fails to raise my chin off the ground, I doubt I'll ever stop listening/reading it.
Thanks for saying this. I’m a secondary (high school) English teacher, and I get my students to memorise poetry regularly - this one is next actually. Lots of my colleagues think it’s old fashioned of me to do this. I’m only 30 and definitely open to new ideas about how to teach, but giving a person the gift of having a poem safe forever in their head and heart is something I believe is immensely valuable, and intend to continue doing, whatever the latest pedagogical fashions say about it.
@@celticcheetah6371I did this when I was teaching too, and for the same reason. It is a great thing to have a beautiful poem inside you forever. It is too bad it is considered old fashioned.
I agree with you in the issue of war. War destroys people's minds for a longlife. My husband is German. He was born after the war. I believe Mexico was for him an Oasis after suffering with the post-war World War II. Michael. Thank you for reading us this wonderful poem. I became a poet myself when I was 13 years old. Destiny and Circumstances changed my life, but after all I am still alive. Love, Lupita Mueller.
Thank you Sir Michael Caine, I read that to my boy too when he was having troubles, my mother did as well for me. Such good advice in that poem. Thank you. We love you Sir.
It was my father who introduced the poem to me as a kid. His favorite line was "if you could walk with kings and not lose your common touch . . . . . then you'll be a man my son. "
@@garyausten6108 this technique you learn in the seals you think your there until they put you down there until you realise being up there ain't even shit
i grew up distant from my father, he never uttered any words of wisdom, advice or poems like this even once, he was so busy working all the time, which leaves me no choice but to be the father figure for myself and my siblings as I'm the older one, even though I'm still 23 and have no children and wife of my own, I'm only teaching myself how to be a man. This poem helps me greatly so i can teach it to my children one day and never make the same mistake my father did.
I just failed the Bar Exam and this is what my younger brother shared with me. It took a bit of the pain away. I realized I'm still blessed to have all these wonderful things around me.
I ordered a print of the poem and gave it to my son. He almost cried. So much meaning to this. Michael Caine was one of the greatest. Probably my favorite. Good read and God bless you. Steven
This was one of the few poems I really liked as a teenager at school. To be honest in my 40’s I can appreciate its true meaning even more. This poem has a history that makes it even more amazing and knowing it was dedicated to Kiplings son who died 5 years after. Makes the last 2 lines even more impressive…
John Kipling was the second of Kipling's children to die young. His daughter, Josephine died of pneumonia at the age of seven. Kipling knew pain and a parent's hopes and fears all too well.
I left my home once spending everything I had. I had to live away from my then girlfriend whom I was sure to marry when I got back home. Distance got to us and we broke up. My journey didn’t work well and I returned back home. I was broke, heart broken, disrespected by everyone I loved. I was fighting my own demons back when I was away but I found my way better than ever. I am grateful for the troubles I went through and I am thankful for the bitter memories I had to endure. I came across this poem and I think it speaks directly to my soul. The first time I heard it I couldn’t stop my tears.
Oh I Love Michael Caine, and what a colossal treat to hear him not only read this well-known and well-loved Kipling poem but talk about it, put it in both a personal and a historical context. Wow. Thank you to whoever created this video and posted it. Well done.
My fathers favourite Kipling verse too. He used to recite it to me as a child, from memory. He passed away in March....I read this at his funeral. I miss you dad.
I have carried this poem as a way to go for the last 20 years and i truly believe that i am a great amazing person. Every line of it is the suggestion how to deal with life.
Michael Caine reminds me here of my own father, who read poetry to me from the time I was old enough to sit up and listen. Thanks to Sir Michael and to you for putting this up.
Thanks for it. Listening to this helps me collect my broken pieces and reattain values, dreams, and above them all - clear vision, free of what's haunting me at the moment.
Fantastic poem. I love how every line expresses some near unachievable virtue, right up until the last paragraph, in which the ideal is being able to run 60 seconds of "distance run". What could be more British than that?
Such a beautiful poem recited in such a simple and humble manner. Just sitting and reading, graceful editing (just showing the words on book), and no music. I say, Bravo.
Im doing this poem in my school, and i literally nearly cried in school hearing this for the first time a week ago. But this mans voice is just so charming to hear and he looks so sweeeeer
In English & Hindi - If is one of the most beautiful poem of English literature. Every line of this poem is inspiring from a child to an elderly person. We all face failures in our life but, we should not get defeated even when our entire efforts get lost and when we are in the last stage of our life and are left with worn out tools only is the real message and beauty of this poem. I am also a great fan of Poet Rudyad Kipling from my childhood days. The other beauty of this video is a beautiful recitation of this great poem by Sir Michael Caine. यदि अंग्रेजी साहित्य की सबसे सुंदर कविताओं में से एक है। इस कविता की हर पंक्ति एक बच्चे से लेकर बुजुर्ग व्यक्ति तक के लिए एक प्रेरणा है। हम सभी अपने जीवन में असफलताओं का सामना करते हैं लेकिन हमें तब भी हार नहीं माननी चाहिए, जब कि हमारा पूरा प्रयास ही व्यर्थ हो गया हो और हम अपने जीवन के चाहे अंतिम पड़ाव में ही क्यों न हो जब हमारे पास केवल टूटे फूटे औज़ार ही बचे हों , यही यही सन्देश इस कविता की असली खूबसूरती है। इस वीडियो की अन्य सुंदरता सर माइकल केन द्वारा इस महान कविता का सुंदर पाठ है. Ravindra K Kapoor 11th August 2020
A wonderful poem. I have coached junior boys basketball foor over 10 years.....and every player I coached knew 'If'. Like Michael, the comment about meeting with triumph and disaster.......and treat them the same - has so much relevance to how sport should be played,
One of my all time favorites from the guy who played Hiltch in "The Man Who Would Be King"? Love Rudyard Kipling. My only friend passed away this morning. I came here for a little reminder.
A really nice recital, delivered in his own understated and thoroughly endearing style. I've always liked this poem. It must be the finest ever written on the subject of what makes character.
One favourite actor and one favourite poem go together so well :) I had never heard the recitation by Sir Michael Caine before but 'If' by Rudyard Kipling, is definitely one of my favourite poems! Now one of my favourite actors is united by Rudyard Kipling. Sheer bliss :)
I loved this poem the first time my father recommended it to me 8 years ago. I had forgotten it but as soon as remembering the word "Əgər"(If) I searched and found it. Here is the Azerbaijani translation equally touching and beautiful: Hamı ağlını çaşıb səni suçlu biləndə, Ağılsızlar içində ağıllı qala bilsən. Özündən əmin olsan hamı şübhələnəndə, Ancaq şübhələri də nəzərə ala bilsən. Əgər gözləyə bilsən gözləməkdən bezmədən, Heç kəsi aldatmasan, səni aldatsalar da. Və özünü bir dahi, bir müdrik zənn etmədən, Hec kəsə kin tutmasan, sənə kin tutsalar da. Xəyallar qura bilsən xəyalpərəst olmadan, Düşüncələrə dalsan, məqsədin pozulmadan. Zəfər ya məğlubiyyət hərdən qarşına çıxsa Bu iki “yalançı”ya eyni göz ilə baxsan. Dediyin həqiqəti təhrif etsə yaramaz, Bunları eşidərkən dözüm göstərə bilsən. Həyatını qoyduğun işlər işə yaramaz, Sən yenə də həvəslə işini görə bilsən. Bütün uğurlarını bir yerə toplayaraq, Bir qumar oyununa qoyub uduzsan belə. Bu itki barəsində heç zaman danışmadan, Yenidən dönə bilsən lap başa, lap əvvələ. Hamı səni tərk edən zaman-qəlbin, sinirin Səndən ayrılmayaraq harayına versə hay. Dözüb-dayana bilsən qalmasa da heç nəyin “Dayan” deyib hayqıran bir iradədən savay. Ləyaqətin qorusan kütlələrin içində, Ya da ki, krallarla birlikdə gəzər ikən. Nə dostun, nə düşmənin küsülü qalsa səndən, Sevib-saysalar səni, ancaq həddi keçmədən. Axıb gedən zamanın, hər günün, hər saatın Hər anını əməyin təriylə yusan, oğlum. Onda bil ki, bu dünya hər şeyiylə sənindir, Və daha da vacibi - ADAM olmusan, oğlum!
Had you thought of making your own You tube video reading this with English subtitles, so we simple souls who have only one language, and, speaking for myself, little of that, can hear it?
@@bellerophonchallen8861 What a coincidence! I was planning to make a UA-cam video for a project and you gave me the idea? Thank you very much for your contribution.
So much truth about acceptance, living confidently certain in oneself while remaining humble - a delicate balance, most never comprehend... The level of wisdom conveyed *in tandem* with the gentle strength nature of his voice so elegantly align n propel to eloquently divine. Peace masterpiece!
I like so many, I had this poem at school and have referred to it many times when I have had the privilege to act as a mentor or to coach a team . I wish this guiding light IF was used more often in the modern work place
I first came across this poem in 1954; when, at fifteen and a half, I joined the Royal Navy. At HMS Ganges, near Ipswich, the whole thing was painted on the wall of the gymnasium; once seen never forgotten, even if not learned word for word.
Did Mr Caine just say 40 seconds versus 60 seconds to a minute :) Priceless That just tells us the small margin there is to things ... Life and success and happiness and everything ... It's so shortlived that we've got to give it our best and enjoy everything to the fullest .. :) loved this poem since the day I first read it at grade school
I think it’s saying to not try and change the world. The poem expresses responsibility, discipline, restraint, and the ability to not, “Make thoughts your aim.” Live your best life and lead by example, don’t go changing the world directly.
This poem has become my life moto. I fist read it in Russian language and I literally was shocked...I never heard anything so powerful and inspiring. Then, original English version is on my list to memorize and recite.
So much thanks from South Korea.! Having heard about coming to Korea because of the disgusting war, I just couldn't pass by. I thank all the people who helped my country during the Korean war. Can't imagine what my life would be if I lived in the country the fat Kim-Jung-Eun rules. "Thank you" can't express my thankfulness enough. I'm so grateful. BTW, I love this poem.
That's the only point one could quibble about in this otherwise perfect poem - that it doesn't account for half the people who might draw inspiration from it. That said, 1895 was, after all, a different era. We shouldn't criticise a person for being born in 1865.
@@MichaelBOverthinking I suppose you wouldn't be too keen on stories about the most famous detective in literature, Shirley Holmes. How about Wilma Shakespeare, then? Her tragedy,"Hamlette, Princess of Denmark," is a masterpiece. I mean: a mistress-piece! 😉
"We shouldn't criticise a person for being born in 1865" You are right, we don't understand how life did work in this era, and we have not to fall in social and cultural relativism. Actually this "poem" was a letter he wrote to his son. John Kippling, who died in September 1915 during the Battle of Loos (1915). He was 18 years old. Best regards.
IF You could have only reread Sir Michael... IF we could right the wrongs...
Sometimes pal, you have to accept mistakes and to understand... that life comes "in one take". Best regards.
@@sigunat...Alas...
Petr, my friend, you noticed the mistakes, but missed the message that Kipling laid out for us.
But there is always hope, and you can try again.
@@charlie-obrien I hope, that I understood the message of this Poem. ...There is always hope, but only in Heavens Realm. On Earth it very often seizes to exist.
@@charlie-obrien Probably, the way I addressed Sir Michael Cane was unceremonious and impertinent... Probably, Sir Michael knew the original handwritten script... I am a total idiot.
I found this poem in the back of my Dads phone case after he sadly died Christmas day 2019. It summed him up perfectly, he was such a beautiful special man, I read it out for him at his funeral and hopefully made him proud. His name was Anthony Vincent Flynn. He was my hero.
beautiful. hope youre doing well
He still is your hero and you his! I bet your a pretty amazing man too. Peace to you brother.
If
@@0towtfhowlifeworks299 thats such a wonderful thing to say I really appreciated that 👌
I am certain he would have been incredibly proud to have heard you recite this poem in his memory. More so, if it was as dear to him as it is to so many of us.
Many years ago, my daughter had to read poem to her class. I suggested that she should read this one. She read it to me from my book of Kipling's verse and I helped her to put what might be called "feeling" into her reading. After school the next day I asked how it had gone. She smiled and said that the teacher had stopped her, gone out of the classroom and returned with other staff members to listen to her read it again from the beginning. Her mother and I are immensely proud of her for that and so much more.
Hey that is amazing. A testament to your parenthood as well.
Beautiful poem my dad used always read it to me .and happy your daughters teacher appreciated it 🌻
So you should be! wonderful
This is awesome! God bless
I first read this poem when I was sixteen. I am 74 now. It has always moved me and guided me, and hearing it read by the great Michael Caine... well, it just doesn't get any better.
What's your most important advice to a young person
@@KevinJohnson-ov8bb
Always follow your passion. Always be grateful for what you have. Never give up.
@@tiffsaver This is excellent advice. Strength and Honor. Live Free!
@@tiffsaver take care of your health sir. And cherish your beautiful moments.
It’s a classic poem. Glad to know it has affected you so deeply 💜
During my divorce my father sent this to me and it saved my life literally
A mi me paso lo mismo. God sabe you
wow, nice.
Kathryn Springer Look up If for Girls 😊
Beautiful papa ❤️❤️
Kathryn Springer That is good to hear. I went through that too and it almost killed me. Twenty one years on and I am single but happy.
It's about being a peace with yourself and others, living your life with humility and honour. This is sorely missing today.
Gerard Kelly was read at my father's funeral
It's worth noting that Sir Kipling's verse makes no mention of heroism, or of bravery. Not a word is given in praise of courage, or ambition, or achievement. The values are those of what we might call "the courage of living": to be humble, steadfast, confident, trustworthy, reasonable, merciful, and persistent- among other things.
Thought it was advice.
seems more like a father passing on advice to his son
That's one way to get the earth and everything that’s in it.
Or you can just wave your magic wand.
I to am 74 and a twenty year veteran and first heard this when I was 18 , I read it several times a year and it never fails to move me
Gazz
Thank
You for your service!!❤️🇺🇸
God bless you it's heroes like you to whom we owe so much to, peace to you and all of your family 🇬🇧 with the greatest respect from Britain 🇬🇧
@@mrpig6714 many thanks i served with pride
Same mate am 26 and I get emotional every time I read it
My father just recommended this to me yesterday. I'm speechless.
Recommend it forward…
He loves u and possibly feels it’s embarrassing to him
I am here bawling like a baby.
I read this at my Daddy's memorial. He sat all my siblings and I down to read this poem, when we became teens. We have reflected upon it in our adulthood. Now, I share it with my children.
I hear my dad's voice in this poem. I came to hear Michael's voice reading it though.
Thank you
Every time that I listen to this I like to pretend that I'm Batman and that I'm being encouraged by Alfred.
Sebastian Moya yes!!!!
😂😂😂🦇😏
😂
If I've never been how can I change?
This reminds me of the 1975 film The Man Who Would Be King, Michael Caine with Sean Connery director John Huston. I can imagine myself in India stood next to Kipling/ Christopher Plummer while Peachy Carnehan/ Michael Caine tells his story or in the film Zulu but not Batman talking to Alfred.
this poem is a summary of stoicism, a reflection of life's truth and a simple warning --not to chase after the mirage of society's standard and lose your 'virtue'. Don't do it.
Facts bro
Realllll
Nicely put broseph, stay true to yourself.
Well said, Sumanji...
Bravo.
I do like the way that Sir Michael gives us 20 seconds to ourselves! (The line actually reads; “If you can fill the unforgiving minute with sixty seconds’ worth of distance run.”)
But Kipling wrote 60, and he still has the final word. Sir Michael also messed up another line. "If you can hear the truth you've spoken twisted. . . " eviscerates the true line "If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken. . . ." Sad thing is there are two different UA-cam recordings and he makes the same errors in both--and he's holding a book with the proper lines in front of his face in the other video.
@@walterdennon4342
Walter, the other video is just this same one overlaid with some crappy images and syrupy background music.
When it comes to the mistakes, I forgive him, because neither changes the theme or the heart of the poem and it is still his very earnest recitation that evokes so much of the imagery of Kipling's words.
@@charlie-obrien You have no soul.
How can you not LOVE Michael and his wonderful voice and dialect.
I've never been able to hear this poem without crying, there's something about the cadence of it that just causes all the feeling to rush up into my chest.
I would also suggest Andrew, that if this poem resonates with you so profoundly, then perhaps it is emotionally ‘true’ to you.
As in to say, you feel the weight of this poem’s message because you have lived by its creed.
Keep being a good man, and may the Universe bless you brother.
I watched the PBS production "My Son Jack", which is the most moving film portraying war I've ever seen; brought me to tears.
Even this rendition? It's rather disappointing. I expected more from Michael Caine.
This brings tears to my eyes every time I read it, if I ever have a son, I will post this on his wall at a very young age. Not a single passage in the English language has influenced me so much as this, it is so true, in the most beautiful way.
I lost my dad a few years back very unexpectedly. He turned me on to Kipling when I was very little. Every time I watch this I ball my eyes out. If you ever have a child the simple thought that you'd post this beautiful poem in his room speaks volumes about what a great father you'd be.
you made me cried
chuckfish6 _ I’m 44 my dad put this poem on my bedroom wall when I was a child. It resonates with me now as it did then every time I walked past it. It’s 11/01/20 I lost my dad last week and held his hand when he passed. I have a 6 year old son and it’s going on his wall. If we can all do 20% of this poem we’d be getting on just fine. Best wishes Ol ✌️
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Read it to your daughters too.
When I first read this poem I was 11 at my dads wedding, everytime I'm going through something, he reminds me to read/listen to it again, I always do, and it never fails to raise my chin off the ground, I doubt I'll ever stop listening/reading it.
Best version of this poem I found on UA-cam- great recital, no pompous video, and no annoyingly loud music.
We had to memorize this poem in high school. It only took 40 years for me to appreciate it, and I’m glad we learned it
Thanks for saying this. I’m a secondary (high school) English teacher, and I get my students to memorise poetry regularly - this one is next actually.
Lots of my colleagues think it’s old fashioned of me to do this. I’m only 30 and definitely open to new ideas about how to teach, but giving a person the gift of having a poem safe forever in their head and heart is something I believe is immensely valuable, and intend to continue doing, whatever the latest pedagogical fashions say about it.
@@celticcheetah6371I did this when I was teaching too, and for the same reason. It is a great thing to have a beautiful poem inside you forever. It is too bad it is considered old fashioned.
I agree with you in the issue of war. War destroys people's minds for a longlife. My husband is German. He was born after the war. I believe Mexico was for him an Oasis after suffering with the post-war World War II. Michael. Thank you for reading us this wonderful poem. I became a poet myself when I was 13 years old. Destiny and Circumstances changed my life, but after all I am still alive. Love, Lupita Mueller.
Thank you Sir Michael Caine, I read that to my boy too when he was having troubles, my mother did as well for me. Such good advice in that poem. Thank you. We love you Sir.
what a beautiful and inspiring poem by Kipling.
Thx, this comment is much appreciated.
It was my father who introduced the poem to me as a kid. His favorite line was "if you could walk with kings and not lose your common touch . . . . . then you'll be a man my son. "
what does this part actually means?
The Brain it’s about being humble and grounded no matter how high you might rise in life.
Many of us have lost our common touch coz we think we are so booojyiiiii💎
@@garyausten6108 man you are an awakened one 🦸♀️🦸♀️🦸♀️🦸♀️🦸♀️🦸♀️✊🏽💥💥💥just the way you phrased it ...maaaaaan
@@garyausten6108 this technique you learn in the seals you think your there until they put you down there until you realise being up there ain't even shit
To walk with kings and not lose the common touch. Wow how amazing these words are
Grandfather read this poem to me when I was young. It's always stayed with me.
i grew up distant from my father, he never uttered any words of wisdom, advice or poems like this even once, he was so busy working all the time, which leaves me no choice but to be the father figure for myself and my siblings as I'm the older one, even though I'm still 23 and have no children and wife of my own, I'm only teaching myself how to be a man. This poem helps me greatly so i can teach it to my children one day and never make the same mistake my father did.
Wow I appreciate your comment. I'm glad there are resources of wisdom for people. You are strong. Makes me be more grateful.
Kipling wrote the poem in 1910 as a father's wish for his 12 year old son. 5 years later, his son died during WWI.
I just failed the Bar Exam and this is what my younger brother shared with me. It took a bit of the pain away.
I realized I'm still blessed to have all these wonderful things around me.
I heard it couple of days ago and I got goosebumps then. It's amazingly beautiful.
I ordered a print of the poem and gave it to my son. He almost cried. So much meaning to this. Michael Caine was one of the greatest. Probably my favorite. Good read and God bless you.
Steven
Such a powerful, wonderful, perfect poem.
The whole poem, is a portrait of whats inside all of us.
Legend reads legendary poem.
This was one of the few poems I really liked as a teenager at school. To be honest in my 40’s I can appreciate its true meaning even more. This poem has a history that makes it even more amazing and knowing it was dedicated to Kiplings son who died 5 years after. Makes the last 2 lines even more impressive…
John Kipling was the second of Kipling's children to die young. His daughter, Josephine died of pneumonia at the age of seven. Kipling knew pain and a parent's hopes and fears all too well.
I left my home once spending everything I had. I had to live away from my then girlfriend whom I was sure to marry when I got back home. Distance got to us and we broke up. My journey didn’t work well and I returned back home. I was broke, heart broken, disrespected by everyone I loved. I was fighting my own demons back when I was away but I found my way better than ever. I am grateful for the troubles I went through and I am thankful for the bitter memories I had to endure. I came across this poem and I think it speaks directly to my soul. The first time I heard it I couldn’t stop my tears.
Oh I Love Michael Caine, and what a colossal treat to hear him not only read this well-known and well-loved Kipling poem but talk about it, put it in both a personal and a historical context. Wow. Thank you to whoever created this video and posted it. Well done.
My fathers favourite Kipling verse too. He used to recite it to me as a child, from memory. He passed away in March....I read this at his funeral. I miss you dad.
I have carried this poem as a way to go for the last 20 years and i truly believe that i am a great amazing person. Every line of it is the suggestion how to deal with life.
Likewise, I try to live by it, I could probably do better though. I would say however, "Don't look to good, nor talk to wise"
The previous guy forgot this line. You can't follow the words of this poem and say, that you're sure that you are a great and amazing person.
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Well, from your own lips you have shown that you are neither humble nor meek.
Elena, if this is ur ethos, well done.
I think you didn't understand the poem if you believe that you're a great amazing person
Michael Caine reminds me here of my own father, who read poetry to me from the time I was old enough to sit up and listen. Thanks to Sir Michael and to you for putting this up.
Thanks for it. Listening to this helps me collect my broken pieces and reattain values, dreams, and above them all - clear vision, free of what's haunting me at the moment.
I learned this when I was in school. One of the most inspiring poems we had to learn. Whoever who chose this to be in the curriculum, thank you
Fantastic poem. I love how every line expresses some near unachievable virtue, right up until the last paragraph, in which the ideal is being able to run 60 seconds of "distance run". What could be more British than that?
Thanks sir Michael - has saved me many times listening to this. Beautifully read and right wise words my son.
This poem is so beautiful, brutal, and absolutely filled with love, pain, and suffering.
I never get tired of hearing this perspective of life, even better hearing it from Sir Michael Caine. Thanks, sigunat!
I love this poem. Has helped me through some real tough times.
Such a beautiful poem recited in such a simple and humble manner. Just sitting and reading, graceful editing (just showing the words on book), and no music. I say, Bravo.
Im doing this poem in my school, and i literally nearly cried in school hearing this for the first time a week ago. But this mans voice is just so charming to hear and he looks so sweeeeer
In English & Hindi -
If is one of the most beautiful poem of English literature. Every line of this poem is inspiring from a child to an elderly person. We all face failures in our life but, we should not get defeated even when our entire efforts get lost and when we are in the last stage of our life and are left with worn out tools only is the real message and beauty of this poem.
I am also a great fan of Poet Rudyad Kipling from my childhood days.
The other beauty of this video is a beautiful recitation of this great poem by Sir Michael Caine.
यदि अंग्रेजी साहित्य की सबसे सुंदर कविताओं में से एक है। इस कविता की हर पंक्ति एक बच्चे से लेकर बुजुर्ग व्यक्ति तक के लिए एक प्रेरणा है। हम सभी अपने जीवन में असफलताओं का सामना करते हैं लेकिन हमें तब भी हार नहीं माननी चाहिए, जब कि हमारा पूरा प्रयास ही व्यर्थ हो गया हो और हम अपने जीवन के चाहे अंतिम पड़ाव में ही क्यों न हो जब हमारे पास केवल टूटे फूटे औज़ार ही बचे हों , यही यही सन्देश इस कविता की असली खूबसूरती है।
इस वीडियो की अन्य सुंदरता सर माइकल केन द्वारा इस महान कविता का सुंदर पाठ है.
Ravindra K Kapoor
11th August 2020
Everybody is fighting a battle.... a hard battle.
Totally true
Couldn't agree more!
And the enemy is within each and everyone of us..
It's one of my life's bestest high points that I've watched and admired and read people like Rudyard Kipling and Sir Michael Caine whom I love dearly.
Rudyard Kipling was a literary genius in his own right. Two of my favorite poems are If and The Gods of The Copybook Headings.
Alex Stamp my favourite pome
And yet he's been cancelled by the regressive left.
@@zel3888 listen to it again, Zel.
@@zel3888 leftist here, he was absolutely a great poet but some of his work is definitely pretty iffy
A wonderful poem. I have coached junior boys basketball foor over 10 years.....and every player I coached knew 'If'. Like Michael, the comment about meeting with triumph and disaster.......and treat them the same - has so much relevance to how sport should be played,
Poetry is much more than words, it's the silent voice that speaks to our soul.
One of my all time favorites from the guy who played Hiltch in "The Man Who Would Be King"? Love Rudyard Kipling. My only friend passed away this morning. I came here for a little reminder.
A really nice recital, delivered in his own understated and thoroughly endearing style. I've always liked this poem. It must be the finest ever written on the subject of what makes character.
One favourite actor and one favourite poem go together so well :) I had never heard the recitation by Sir Michael Caine before but 'If' by Rudyard Kipling, is definitely one of my favourite poems! Now one of my favourite actors is united by Rudyard Kipling. Sheer bliss :)
What a treat. Watching from Wyoming-Thank You!🙋🏼♀️
Loved it...Thank u Sir Michael Caine. U are one of the few I would love to meet...true gent!
I loved this poem the first time my father recommended it to me 8 years ago. I had forgotten it but as soon as remembering the word "Əgər"(If) I searched and found it.
Here is the Azerbaijani translation equally touching and beautiful:
Hamı ağlını çaşıb səni suçlu biləndə,
Ağılsızlar içində ağıllı qala bilsən.
Özündən əmin olsan hamı şübhələnəndə,
Ancaq şübhələri də nəzərə ala bilsən.
Əgər gözləyə bilsən gözləməkdən bezmədən,
Heç kəsi aldatmasan, səni aldatsalar da.
Və özünü bir dahi, bir müdrik zənn etmədən,
Hec kəsə kin tutmasan, sənə kin tutsalar da.
Xəyallar qura bilsən xəyalpərəst olmadan,
Düşüncələrə dalsan, məqsədin pozulmadan.
Zəfər ya məğlubiyyət hərdən qarşına çıxsa
Bu iki “yalançı”ya eyni göz ilə baxsan.
Dediyin həqiqəti təhrif etsə yaramaz,
Bunları eşidərkən dözüm göstərə bilsən.
Həyatını qoyduğun işlər işə yaramaz,
Sən yenə də həvəslə işini görə bilsən.
Bütün uğurlarını bir yerə toplayaraq,
Bir qumar oyununa qoyub uduzsan belə.
Bu itki barəsində heç zaman danışmadan,
Yenidən dönə bilsən lap başa, lap əvvələ.
Hamı səni tərk edən zaman-qəlbin, sinirin
Səndən ayrılmayaraq harayına versə hay.
Dözüb-dayana bilsən qalmasa da heç nəyin
“Dayan” deyib hayqıran bir iradədən savay.
Ləyaqətin qorusan kütlələrin içində,
Ya da ki, krallarla birlikdə gəzər ikən.
Nə dostun, nə düşmənin küsülü qalsa səndən,
Sevib-saysalar səni, ancaq həddi keçmədən.
Axıb gedən zamanın, hər günün, hər saatın
Hər anını əməyin təriylə yusan, oğlum.
Onda bil ki, bu dünya hər şeyiylə sənindir,
Və daha da vacibi - ADAM olmusan, oğlum!
Had you thought of making your own You tube video reading this with English subtitles, so we simple souls who have only one language, and, speaking for myself, little of that, can hear it?
@@bellerophonchallen8861 What a coincidence! I was planning to make a UA-cam video for a project and you gave me the idea? Thank you very much for your contribution.
So much truth about acceptance, living confidently certain in oneself while remaining humble - a delicate balance, most never comprehend... The level of wisdom conveyed *in tandem* with the gentle strength nature of his voice so elegantly align n propel to eloquently divine. Peace masterpiece!
One of Kipling's best poems, I've always kept a copy on my desk to serve as a reminder of what if?
I like so many, I had this poem at school and have referred to it many times when I have had the privilege to act as a mentor or to coach a team . I wish this guiding light IF was used more often in the modern work place
I first came across this poem in 1954; when, at fifteen and a half, I joined the Royal Navy. At HMS Ganges, near Ipswich, the whole thing was painted on the wall of the gymnasium; once seen never forgotten, even if not learned word for word.
My grandfather gave me that poem in a card when I graduated in 1974, still moved me to this day
IF and Desiderata - the wells I visit when I am empty. Thank you Sir Michael - a true knight.
Nothing can be as precious as being sent this poem by his lover.
Thanks, this is one of the greatest poems of all time. Well done.
Brilliant. Brilliant brilliant. Thank you so much for the post. Inspired me and I shared it thank you
Thank you for this beautiful reading, Sir Caine.
No "soothing" music, no hokey images, just his voice and a calm setting. Thank you.
Now, if I could find "The Raven" that way I'd be pleased.
One of the best poems ever, especially when spoken by sir Michael Caine himself. And I don't even care about poetry that much.
Still makes me tingle watching this. I first read this poem when I was 12 and it has always stuck with me
Did Mr Caine just say 40 seconds versus 60 seconds to a minute :)
Priceless
That just tells us the small margin there is to things ... Life and success and happiness and everything ... It's so shortlived that we've got to give it our best and enjoy everything to the fullest .. :) loved this poem since the day I first read it at grade school
Wow thank you for sharing. I could listen to him speak all day🥰
Dont give up. Don't back down. Fight. Be you and fight. And change the world.
only a fool refuses to give up ground in order to lead a stronger front tomorrow
I think it’s saying to not try and change the world. The poem expresses responsibility, discipline, restraint, and the ability to not, “Make thoughts your aim.” Live your best life and lead by example, don’t go changing the world directly.
Thank you Sir Michael, well read and guide good for these uncertain times, take care and good health 👍
This is awesome...love Kipling's writing and Michael Caine's voice!
I dedicate this poem to my mom who recently passed away. It was given to me by a former boss/supervisor in 1995 or so. Words to try and live by.
Poems open doors to amazing set of emotions, my soul adore.
I read this poem as part of the eulogy at my father's funeral. Fitting spirit about how a life should be lived. These words have a special place.
This poem has become my life moto. I fist read it in Russian language and I literally was shocked...I never heard anything so powerful and inspiring. Then, original English version is on my list to memorize and recite.
So pertinent today that I found this on a family member's page. I am tearing up.
I will add to view count till I memorize this. This by far greatest thing I have ever heard.
Love love love this. Thank you so much for sharing.
I’m working on studying on a test where we have to recite this, hearing someone else is really nice, thank you.
Make sure your minute has 60 seconds, and not 40.
Do some research into Micheal Caine
I have listened to this so so many times . It never gets boring . It offers so much .
So much thanks from South Korea.! Having heard about coming to Korea because of the disgusting war, I just couldn't pass by. I thank all the people who helped my country during the Korean war. Can't imagine what my life would be if I lived in the country the fat Kim-Jung-Eun rules. "Thank you" can't express my thankfulness enough. I'm so grateful. BTW, I love this poem.
Every school child should hear this poem. It is a road map to being an outstanding person.
A poet can say in one page or less what most authors can't say in 300 pages. Amazes me.
My father loved this poem. He quoted it all the time.
We had this poem on our hallway wall when i was a kid. Think it goes a long way in the way i treat people today...or try to.
My favorite! Made so much more wonderful by hearing it from you and in such a beautiful setting. Thank you for sharing!
You captured that perfectly. Many thanks.
Has always been my favourite poem. Had a poster of it in my sons room.
unquestionably the best piece of literature ever written
I think it is even with the William Ernest Henley's poem "Invictus", be my guest check it on my chanel.
possibly, but I have very personal, deep seated reasons for finding solace in IF
I think 'Invictus' by Henley and 'Do not go gentle into that good night' by Thomas are as powerful as they are meaningful as well.
Digging, by Heaney is the finest piece of poetry in existence.
Well!! If you add Shakespeare to that equation, that "unquestionably" will sink to death
A man of infinite sense who has never lost the common touch. I salute you, Sir.
I dedicated this to someone very important, I just changed the last part with: “you be a outstanding woman, my daughter”.
That's the only point one could quibble about in this otherwise perfect poem - that it doesn't account for half the people who might draw inspiration from it.
That said, 1895 was, after all, a different era. We shouldn't criticise a person for being born in 1865.
The poem is about the human condition irrespective of gender. That's how I've always seen it.
You changed Kipling? That’s absolute heresy.
@@MichaelBOverthinking I suppose you wouldn't be too keen on stories about the most famous detective in literature, Shirley Holmes. How about Wilma Shakespeare, then? Her tragedy,"Hamlette, Princess of Denmark," is a masterpiece. I mean: a mistress-piece! 😉
"We shouldn't criticise a person for being born in 1865" You are right, we don't understand how life did work in this era, and we have not to fall in social and cultural relativism. Actually this "poem" was a letter he wrote to his son. John Kippling, who died in September 1915 during the Battle of Loos (1915). He was 18 years old. Best regards.
IF ~ calling be ~ INSPIRED FAITH... F A I T H be it of Freedom, Ascension, IAM, Truth, Harmony... blessed by the grace of life.
"War is declared by men to old to serve". Sir Michael Caine
i love you, Sir Michael! Thank you xx
Epitome of class and grace