When and where found: I found this word while I was searching for a new name for my new kitten. The kitten is a siamese and I want to give it a strong and unique name. I am not sure if we will end up choosing this name. We are still thinking of Maximus and Spartacus. So while I was searching the meaning of this name I stumbled upon an amazing poem as titled by William E. Henley.
What it means: This word means "unconquerable" according to Henley's poem. In addition, reading Henley's poem also solidifies the meaning. Underlying connotations are inner strength, independent control, etc. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary online does not recognize INVICTUS as a word, most likely because it is a name.
Level of Familiarity: I was not too familiar with this word before looking it up; however, I had it in the back of my mind for some reason.
To know well...or not? Yes, especially if you read the poem. I was so thrilled to find the poem that truly expresses the meaning of INVICTUS so effectively. This word is important to know well because the world is a place where one can get forgotten about or used. If we remember the meaning of this word, then we can become more conscious of our strengths and thrive by capitalizing on them.
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| Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.
It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll.
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.
William Ernest Henley
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(from http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/invictus/) |
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