Abstract

In this study we try to explore the concept of “manhood” in a holistic context. The main focus of the research is on “manhood” in the light of Rudyard Kipling's work, “If”. The research analyzes the different aspects of “manhood” as depicted in “If”. Finally the research describes various factors which are responsible for “manhood” and sketches the essentials as described by Kipling.

Passage of Manhood

Introduction

One of the most renowned works in the literary archives for understanding this phenomenon of manhood are the writings of Rudyard Kipling, especially his poem “If”. Kipling in his works has identified the various characteristics and essentials that constitute manhood, although these attributes and traits are always changing (Gilmour, pp.45). Despite the diversity that the idea of manhood holds, Kipling's description of manhood has been a source of inspiration and appeal to all the readers irrespective of their culture, language and ethnicity .

This paper aims at discussing the concept of manhood in the light of Rudyard Kipling's inspirational and motivational works. The paper makes special reference to Kipling's poem “If” for highlighting the requisites of manhood and how an individual may seek to acquire his desired levels of manhood.

Discussion

Background

Manhood is a complex concept. Whilst not every man seeks it, not every man gets it either. Accomplishment of manhood can take a lifetime. The society has established certain norms and rituals that dictate the passage of manhood. Although these rituals are subject to constant evolution, the rules pertaining to this passage of manhood remain constant. Defining these beliefs, values, thoughts and notions that guide the passage of manhood for an individual over the span of his lifetime is a difficult task (Lycett, pp.67). Different people have different perspectives regarding this transformation process, which contributes to the diversity that relates to the subject. However, even with the diversity, the essence of this unique transition stays the same.

Kipling's Perspective of Manhood as depicted in “If”

Kipling has a distinguished style of narrating things in his writings that separates him from his peers. Kipling makes effective use of the didactic style of poem to capture and sustain the attention and focus of the reader (Kipling, pp.22). This ensures that the reader pays all his attention to the words and does not let his imagination misinterpret Kipling's for a false representation. Even if the reader does not have any of the attributes highlighted by Kipling, or even if the reader already knows what ...