'T IS an ancient Roman proverb: "Whoso braveth desperate odds, Wins the potent stars to aid him, And the favor of the gods!" Every brave and strong endeavor Helps heroic souls to rise Unto higher heights of triumph — Nearer to the smiling skies. Life is but a broad arena — But a mighty contest-ring, And the struggle, to the victor, Doth a glorious guerdon bring. Be the prize you seek, my brother, Where the battle-banners flame, Knowledge, wisdom, hand of woman, Power, or station, wealth, or fame, Be the first to join the onset, Though you traverse flood and fire; Smite, relentless, every foeman That would foil your heart's desire. Knightly faith, and Roman courage, Live, and hold the vantage still; Valor wins the victor's garland — You can conquer if you will! | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...THE CHOIR INVISIBLE by MARY ANN EVANS NIMROD: 2 by ANNA HEMPSTEAD BRANCH A PORTRAIT by ELIZABETH BARRETT BROWNING BALAUSTION'S ADVENTURE: PART 2 by ROBERT BROWNING NIGHT SONG by GRACE HAZARD CONKLING A BALLAD IN BLANK VERSE by JOHN DAVIDSON |