He was one of my favorite writers as a child. I was required in 8th grade to memorize the poem IF and recite it in class. The morning of, my little dog was hit by a car. I was heartbroken. My mother sent me to school anyhow. I recited the poem crying and my teacher became angry. She sent me to the principal. Thankfully he had a heart and called my father to come and get me. My childhood was not a very good one, but I never knew that about Kipling. It makes so much sense now how much so many of his poems touched my heart. Thank you, thank you, for sharing.
@TheSaltydog072 жыл бұрын
You break my heart. How could a teacher do that. How cruel.
@bethparker15002 жыл бұрын
Cruel mom and teacher, so glad you made it.
@winstonpoole99062 жыл бұрын
@@TheSaltydog07 It was the early 50's I had a double paper round, some times the papers were late at the newsagents, so I was late for school. Late twice in one week, you had the cane, no excuses. 12 years old...I'm now 80 years old it... still makes me angry thinking about it .
@bharn2532 жыл бұрын
Teachers truly don't know shit. Prejudiced and arrogant. They should build children's strengths. They instead try to mold and groom them. To force them into their vision of culture. Not teachers, indoctrinators. They call students stupid, when in fact, they are poor teachers. Unable to instruct and hold children's interest.
@paulduffy45852 жыл бұрын
@@winstonpoole9906 the generation before you might've said you had it pretty cushy.
@briangarrow4485 жыл бұрын
As my father laid in hospice care, his body betrayed by the cruel cancer that wracked his body, I spent hours reading Mr. Kipling's stories to him. Those stories gave him, and me, a great comfort. Thanks again, Mr. History Guy. I can't figure out who is cutting the onions now on my porch.
@TheDoctor12255 жыл бұрын
God bless you, friend. Both of my parents have been gone for some years now, and from time to time as I think back on memories of days gone by, that same person comes along and starts cutting onions. No matter how hard I try, I NEVER can seem to catch them, but someday I'm sure I will! :)
@mov1ngforward5 жыл бұрын
🙏
@jeffreyroot73465 жыл бұрын
God Bless! I also sat many hours with my father as he slowly passed due to cancer. Now it's my turn to fight it.
@oldman09955 жыл бұрын
Jeffrey Root much respect. I hope someone stands with you as you did with your father.
@briangarrow4485 жыл бұрын
@@jeffreyroot7346 Stay strong my friend. I will be sending positive thoughts and prayers your way.
@robinsherrod29735 жыл бұрын
My youngest son decided to go to college across the country from where he was hailed; he chose Oregon. He had decided to make it on his own as his mother (myself) had MS and Crohn’s Disease. I sent him out with a hand-written copy of “If”, to follow from day to day. He later told me how often the words came true for him.
@txnetcop4 жыл бұрын
My mother read IF to me on my 12th birthday. I have done my best to live it! i remember it as a soldier in the late 60s and I still credit that poem for giving me strength to maintain momentum after the death of some of my friends.
@josephstevens9888 Жыл бұрын
What a wonderful birthday present from a mother to a son!
@michaeldavis3819Ай бұрын
Thank you for your service. Losing brothers-in-arms cuts to the core. I know.
@drsch4 жыл бұрын
As a father of two daughters, I found his telling of stories to his daughter to be a very touching bit. My daughter does the exact same thing when I make up stories. She memorizes the stories and makes sure I always keep them exactly the same.
@timcooke99335 жыл бұрын
My father read me “If” many times when I was young, and I passed that on to my sons. It went a long way to making me the man I am today. A wonderful submission, History Guy. Thank you.
@douglasstrother65844 жыл бұрын
"If" ~ Rudyard Kipling IF you can keep your head when all about you Are losing theirs and blaming it on you, If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you, But make allowance for their doubting too; If you can wait and not be tired by waiting, Or being lied about, don't deal in lies, Or being hated, don't give way to hating, And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise: If you can dream - and not make dreams your master; If you can think - and not make thoughts your aim; If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster And treat those two impostors just the same; If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools, Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken, And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools: If you can make one heap of all your winnings And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss, And lose, and start again at your beginnings And never breathe a word about your loss; If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew To serve your turn long after they are gone, And so hold on when there is nothing in you Except the Will which says to them: 'Hold on!' If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue, ' Or walk with Kings - nor lose the common touch, if neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you, If all men count with you, but none too much; If you can fill the unforgiving minute With sixty seconds' worth of distance run, Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it, And - which is more - you'll be a Man, my son! www.kiplingsociety.co.uk/poems_if.htm
@robertfears20114 жыл бұрын
@@douglasstrother6584 beautiful
@douglasstrother65844 жыл бұрын
Cigars are less dangerous, too!
@jeffreyroot63004 жыл бұрын
D. E. I will stick to love and heartache. Nothing hurts like a broken heart, but nothing makes life sing in color like love! Me , circa now
@jeffreyroot63004 жыл бұрын
D. E. I will agree I had many infatuations , then one day... 15 years now , I still adore my wife. We’ve settled into life, yes, We don’t get giggly seeing each other, and I can still get an ache in my chest thinking about her . So , you are right, at least in part. I recognize my earlier life in your description.
@dusseau135 жыл бұрын
As a retired English teacher, your treatment of Kipling was top notch. Even your narration seemed to flow seamlessly into Kipling and back.
@aneily5 жыл бұрын
Oooh snap!
@davideaston69445 жыл бұрын
@@dusseau13 "Your very judgemental ..." - Ha! I'm afraid the court finds for the plaintiff. And here I was on your side, finding 'acbulgin2' to be far too presumptuous; and then you went and did this! Doh! {%^)
@dusseau135 жыл бұрын
@@davideaston6944 Are you on something?
@davideaston69445 жыл бұрын
@@dusseau13 That would be, by any standards of the English language: "YOU'RE very judgemental ...", not "Your very judgemental ..." Seriously? And you want to try sarcasm on me? Yes, I'm on something; it's called, "The Top". Self-righteousness doesn't look good on someone who keeps making mistakes while being proud to say they're an expert on the subject. Try some humility; even a "sorry, my mistake", wouldn't be out of line. Continuing being defensive doesn't work. Good luck with that.
@fredneecher17465 жыл бұрын
As a retired English teacher, you should recognise a dangling participle when you write one. Or are you saying the man in the video is the retired English teacher?
@ninja0115 жыл бұрын
My Great Grandfather met Kipling once when doing post-graduate studies in the UK, he came from Russia just a year before WW1 broke out. He would say that his time in that country was hard and cruel, for being a foreigner made him a target. He always spoke highly of his meeting with Kipling, saying that he was the kindest soul he had ever met and that if there was ever a person that made him feel welcomed and heard at that time, Kipling was that person. In memory of him and Kipling, I will impart my great grandfather's most important words of wisdom he told me. "No person is beyond controversy, by believing in something, you have made yourself controversial. That there will always be those that disapprove of you and your beliefs, and though they may make good points to validate their criticisms, it is still your chouse to choose what you believe in, and how you evolve them in life."
@paulmanson2535 жыл бұрын
He was a smart man. You were blessed to know him.
@TheKhanhhoa5 жыл бұрын
beautiful
@MarkSmith-js2pu5 жыл бұрын
Wow, that’s heavy, thank you for sharing
@louiejordan69335 жыл бұрын
Thank you for sharing those words. It is appreciated
@marilynkonrad84975 жыл бұрын
Thank you for sharing. You are most fortunate to feel the way you do. I feel fortunate to feel the same. I am unafraid to stand by my words and beliefs. Often ousted by some. My father spoke often of Kipling’s words quoting him often. “IF “. Coming instantly to mind. I was very young but never forgot his words. So wise. I am not confrontational by any means , like to share thoughts , once things get heated so prefer to agree to disagree and move along. Thank God for the choice to choose , treasure it while we have it.
@EasyThere3 жыл бұрын
Kipling's poem IF is a father to the fatherless, A reminder and ghostly whisper to the sons of dead men, and a rubric by which good men live. A masterpiece for all time.
@jamesbailand43113 жыл бұрын
Indeed.
@Sheeeeeeeeeeeeiiitt2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for sharing that.
@professorbonghair31112 жыл бұрын
Amen!
@philwilliams25052 жыл бұрын
No it wasnt.!!! It was a poem about Leander Star Jameson....get your facts right. Filling people with false information is so f**king annoying!!!
@jasoncornell15792 жыл бұрын
The Gods of the Copybook Headings is an education against extremes preaching political moderation
@bubbalandbeau98724 жыл бұрын
He has always spoken to me and is my favorite poet. “If” and “Gunga Din” are certainly treasures! “Tommy” a poem about the British soldier, commonly called “Tommy Atkins” by the Brits, much like we say G.I. Joe here in the US., is my favorite though. Kipling knew about soldiers and soldiering. He understood their language, their sense of humor, their lifestyle and sacrifices and their tremendous love of something greater than themselves and hurt when their own countrymen don’t respect them for their service. “For its Tommy this, and Tommy that, and Chuck him out the brute! But it’s savior of his country when the guns begin to shoot; And it’s Tommy this and Tommy that, and anything you please; and Tommy ain’t a blooming fool-- you bet that Tommy sees!” Yes, servicemen and service women see how they get treated. God Bless freedom! Thank you Mr. Kipling and Semper Fidelis from an old Marine.
@pavelstaravoitau7106 Жыл бұрын
British soldiers were colonising, terrorising and genociding all over the world so disliking them and what they do is totally reasonable (same for the US military). Yet another reason to dislike Rudyard Kipling as a person.
@michaeldavis3819Ай бұрын
@@pavelstaravoitau7106Yes, and then they stood up to Imperialist Germany, Italy and Japan in WWII, just as NATO and our allies in the Pacific are standing up to Imperialist Russia and China today.
@michaeldavis3819Ай бұрын
Thank you for your service from an old Soldier.
@pavelstaravoitau7106Ай бұрын
@michaeldavis3819 the only reason Britain decided to declare war on nazi Germany was because Germany dared to strike against British interests. If nazi Germany and USSR fought each other in 1938 or 1939, Britain wouldn't have lifted a finger to fight against nazis, since they were fine with the racism and the genocide, as long as it was done against communists and people deemed inferior. NATO is an evil terrorist alliance and the fact that you defend both it and the British empire is very telling.
@damnperrys15 жыл бұрын
When I was a student at the US Army Sniper school in the early 90's we were taught KIM's (Keep In Mind) games. A referral to Kipling's methods to train to improve memory and focus by being able to recall small details and the bigger picture of what we had seen/heard during the lesson. Something I still use in my practices today and something Ive taught my children to do. A invaluable tool no matter the profession. I had lost the origin of these exercises until listening to your lesson. Fondly remembering times from long ago, kept me alive and strong I know.... Thank you!
@gulfrelay22495 жыл бұрын
This memory exercise was featured in the novel Kim. Also in the film Gigi. Used in Secrets of The Ninja, Palidin Press, ca. 1990 something by (wait for it) Ashida KIM! I myself have used this to entertain and hopefully sharpen up bored kids and myself. Along with reading and memorizing upside down text.
@schizoidboy5 жыл бұрын
Considering what I heard about Ashida Kim, he probably stole it from Kipling's Kim. ;)
@intotheabyssoftheunknown44795 жыл бұрын
Yes, it does heighten ones situational awareness!
@gulfrelay22495 жыл бұрын
@@schizoidboy along with the screenwriter who did Gigi. Kipling himself probably picked it up from the street kids. There's quite a bit of shady goings on and tradecraft in Kim. BTW, Ashida Kim lead me to the real Kim. A.K. obviously a nom de plume, cashing in on the Ninja craze. The parts on meditation and combatives were pretty good; simple, easy to understand, and therefore useful.
@peculiarlittleman53035 жыл бұрын
Thank you! Will try! I'm far too oblivious. I think too much.
@cruzdirector86375 жыл бұрын
My mother read Kipling to me and my siblings often. I had no idea that the man behind the pen suffered so much. Again, thank you for another peek behind the curtains of history. You’re the best, History Guy!
@1962pjh5 жыл бұрын
One of my favorites is, "The Cat that Walked by Himself'
@jackofswords75 жыл бұрын
My favorite poet by far. As a veteran of the British Army I would call him the soldiers poet. Thank you for covering his life story.
@lynnhauenstein41364 жыл бұрын
Yes I have an old book of soldiers ditties. By Kipling.
@frankmueller27814 жыл бұрын
Not only s great poet, but one the best observers of the coming culture of the 20th century.
@janebrown17062 жыл бұрын
Yes, the soldier's poet!
@brega62862 жыл бұрын
I am mother of three and now have one left on this earth. As a young child my father was going to night college for years while he worked full time. He would do double duty... reading his assignments to me.. no kiddie books ! As he had spent time in India and Pakistan area... he had an affinity for Kipling. Those I remember... and Moby Dick but the physics books and such... think I fell asleep fast ! Such a great Dad !
@retriever19golden554 жыл бұрын
I deeply loved Kipling as a child, and read many of his books to my own son when he was young. "Kim" engendered some interesting discussions about people and their times, and the evolution of how we see and how we label others, as Twain's works did also. Thank you, Rudyard Kipling, especially for the real Jungle Book.
@ronjones-69772 жыл бұрын
It's truly a shame that most people just know the animated movie. Kipling is one of my favorite authors. Before I was 6, Captains Courageous was the second book I read, Kidnapped being the first.
@262marcus5 жыл бұрын
I got a lump in the throat at the quoting of “if”. Learning of Kipling’s background seemed to lend the poem more poignancy A history well told and worth remembering. Well done History Guy.
@markakin37424 жыл бұрын
Very much so
@thaddeushawley65235 жыл бұрын
One of my favorite KZbin days was finding The History Guy. Thanks for the awesome videos!
@nhlightning98045 жыл бұрын
I too adore the regular videos from The History Guy.
@kenthawley59905 жыл бұрын
From one Hawley to another, I agree!
@LazyTestudines5 жыл бұрын
I'm lucky youtube persisted. I don't know why but the first few times the history guy was suggested to me, I refused to click. KZbin seemed adamant about it though, so I watched one but forgot about the channel. Then it suggested it again and again, since then I must have watched at least a hundred of them.
@Eddie420235 жыл бұрын
@@LazyTestudines all hail the KZbin algorithm.
@Switcharoo125 жыл бұрын
Agreed.👍
@cedainty5 жыл бұрын
My husband an I are married now 48 years. "If" has always been a favorite of mine. Then I found a sheet of paper in my Hubby's stuff as we were looking for family history. It was a copy of "If" that he had written when he was in high school. Two birds of a feather, he and I, for 48 years and counting.
@marymarysmarket35084 жыл бұрын
Kipling was still required reading in the 1960-70s in Chicago public schools. Starting in Junior High schools. Shakespeare..Dickens..Kipling..Poe. How far we have fallen.
@1995yuda4 жыл бұрын
Amazing. Thank you for sharing that. Blessings.
@danacoleman40073 жыл бұрын
congratulations!
@chriscw34873 жыл бұрын
my farther was killed in a traffic accident when my mother was 6 months pregnant with me ...when i was in my early 20s (after my mother had been taken by cancer) i found a letter a friend had sent her after my fathers death ...."if" ....it is not a poem to bring comfort ...but i found understanding ...you can fold in on yourself or you can get on with it and " stoop and build ’em up with worn-out tools
@sequoyah592 жыл бұрын
An amazingly familiar story. 46 years for us.
@Eurotrash43674 жыл бұрын
This is one of The History Guy's best episodes.
@MrRavenski232 жыл бұрын
Being French, I did not know much about him except for the Jungle Book as in France educational system, literature is mainly focussed on French authors. Reading some of the comments inspired me to read "If" after watching the video. This is a most superb masterpiece of a poem, what a great man he must have been to capture so well the lessons in life! And good with words too!
@ClipCoyote5 жыл бұрын
My favorite poet, and I never knew his life was so tragic. I'm forever grateful his work was immortalized and somehow found it's way to me.
@josephdupont2 жыл бұрын
I'd like you to research United flight 409 which at the time of a crash in 1955 was the largest air disaster in the United States recently a gentleman I know ran carbon monoxide test on some of the remains that are still buried near where the plane crash into the mountains the industry tried to blame it on pilot error but there's enough evidence now that any logical person would realize that the plane was flying out of control and wobbling in the air and when it hit the mountain it was still at Cruise power they never went to full power when they hit the mountain which would have been a natural instinct for any pilot I can send you my references let me know if you're interested in taking this one on I might even sponsor this one it took out four of our residents here in Towanda one of the ladies before they went on the Strip they got their wheel redone because she thought it was about time they had some bad bad fortune
@oscarwarren4692 жыл бұрын
Chitty...bang down.
@grosbeakmc5 жыл бұрын
When I was a kid and having a tough time, my Mom would say, "Hang in, Gunga Din!" It was years before I learned of the poem that was the source of that name, and it has been one of my favourites ever since. Thank you for sharing history, which does indeed deserve to be remembered.
@EnTeaJay5 жыл бұрын
This is one of your most poignant commentaries. Very well done. You’ve captured the essence of this great man.
@Joker-jt3vn5 жыл бұрын
Nancy Jervis Very well put Nancy. We all need to appreciate the challenge of capturing the essence of someone so complex and doing it in 15 minutes!
@theshocker46265 жыл бұрын
I got something in my eye
@thomasyoest65575 жыл бұрын
I too had something in my eye, but it all poured out.
@thomasyoest65575 жыл бұрын
Who the hell is H.E. Rey. Nothing on YT about him. Snipe hunt??
@tamjacobite47585 жыл бұрын
I could not agree more with Joker
@williamdalrymple37754 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this brief insight into Kipling's life. Rarely had any use for fiction but he captured me thoroughly. As I age poorly I appreciate the brief reimersion into the delight of Kipling's rare gift.
@ronjones-69772 жыл бұрын
Your last line reminds me how much the craft of writing has been lost. Kipling always made me feel like I was reading a song. The beauty and flow just sweep you away to a place in HIS imagination.
@AndrewVelonis4 жыл бұрын
You missed something: when the Boy Scouts of America formed the Cub Scouts, Rudyard Kipling was on the Board of Trustees. This is why the Cub Scouts use many of the names of Jungle Book characters
@paulleckner82352 жыл бұрын
Thank you for sharing.
@lab359822 жыл бұрын
Actually he was a friend of Baden-Powell and the Jungle Book was the inspiration for the Wolf Cubs, Americans couldn't handle the Imperial nature of Scouting so they called them Cub Scouts.
@paulleckner82352 жыл бұрын
@@lab35982 Thank you for sharing!
@taniaearle44572 жыл бұрын
Interesting thank you
@Stephen-lx9nm10 ай бұрын
Scouts were from Britain
@phyllisrigney82565 жыл бұрын
Wonderful and sad. You present these videos so very well!
@Chinahand1115 жыл бұрын
Mr. History Guy is the best. What a story teller! Please show more of your cat.
@zencreature5 жыл бұрын
Agreed.
@michaelmartin69125 жыл бұрын
You always lessen my ignorance , and for that I thank you sir...
@dmc25545 жыл бұрын
That doesn't even rhyme.......
@virginagobetz47565 жыл бұрын
@@dmc2554 What ARE you talking about?
@dmc25545 жыл бұрын
@@virginagobetz4756 Poetry.
@michaelmartin69124 жыл бұрын
d mc......yes , rhyming would have been a nice touch. Wish I had thought of that..
@JTan745 жыл бұрын
Whenever I need inspiration or faced with a moral dilemma, I read Kipling's "If". I'm glad you recited it in closing. 🙏🏽
@jmad6275 жыл бұрын
J. Tan I do the same thing.
@gracietilert89525 ай бұрын
That was a wonderful coverage of Rudyard Kipling’s life. Thank you.
@5330MALLARD2 жыл бұрын
As a kid in grade school I learned to recite “If” as a class project. To this day, at 75, it is my most favorite recitation. And Kipling is my most favorite writer of both prose and poetry.
@TheAuntieBa5 жыл бұрын
My beloved grandfather had a collection of every published Kipling work; his favorite author, so I knew Kipling early. I have that collection now. My grandparents struggled financially, so they’re cheap books with yellowed, fragile pages but so dear. I’m appalled to hear now of Kipling’s childhood and the loss of two of his three children. So much beauty out of sadness.
@Alex4620475 жыл бұрын
Kipling's poem "If" was one of my grandfather's favourite poems. May they both rest in peace.
@LiftOffLife5 жыл бұрын
"If" is brilliant.
@rebeccawoolfolk53775 жыл бұрын
My dad had me memorize poems when I was little, and If was one of them.
@philmcdonald47785 жыл бұрын
@@rebeccawoolfolk5377 No waste of time.
@overlycreative15 жыл бұрын
It was having a childhood of now 60 years ago past that in reading these types of great novels I was enchanted with the adventures more lucidly created in my imagination. It was through the lives of men like Kipling, Melville, Hemingway and others that I learned a man could survive sometimes through will alone, what would take a lesser informed or inspired man down. I have climbed cold wet mountains, slept in muddy war torn nights, had no water drink and little food to eat at times. But I never suffered as the romance of my life's history was being created with each larvae I ate, each full moon I counted as my calendar, each wave I sailed over. I have had a lucky life to be sure but I would not trade a single second of it having the words of these men, written as if just for me alone. In the times I was alone against the elements and predatory animals I had these stories in memory to keep me company. I grew up with great men of literature all around me, they made a better man out of me.
@src45265 жыл бұрын
that is hardcore friend. and more, i can totally identify with it.
@BlancoToldYou5 жыл бұрын
Great post... I loved getting lost in literature,and till this day I still love a great read..But nowadays these kids are like "Books? I'm not sure what that is...Is that a French word?" Lol
@kathymyers72795 жыл бұрын
overlycreative1 cool person. Some how someway, tell your story!
@mariadacre58755 жыл бұрын
overlycreative1...Nicely put that post was a work of art in itself.
@dennisnolan50952 жыл бұрын
I'm almost 60 but I was raised hearing my father (using amazing voices) reading The Elephant's Child & The Cat Who Walked By Himself. How wonderful it is to learn more about Kipling. Thank you!
@MsMesem Жыл бұрын
but ? Seems very normal and a very happy memory.
@Loreman724 жыл бұрын
I grew up in South Africa in the 70s and 80s, and Kipling's stories were part of my culture. Until now, I had no idea he'd spent so much time in America! His stories are loaded with the British Raj, with snippets of languages and concepts from Malaya, India and South Africa. It was a vanished world, and I can still recite some of those poems off by heart.
@craigdavidson22785 жыл бұрын
My grandad quoted the poem 'IF' to me when I was 9 years old, we were dear stalking in my native perthshire during a school holiday. Grandad was (in his own way) trying to prepare me for future events that could be hard to cope with. 3 weeks later he was buried near his house at Loch Rannoch on the gentle slopes of his beloved Schiehallion. I now think back to how much that walk must have hurt him as he was seriously ill (unbeknown to me) I'd like to think that he had planned the day especially...and "IF" was the way to do it.
@thereforeayam4 жыл бұрын
"deer"
@craigdavidson22784 жыл бұрын
@@thereforeayam sorry....we were not hunting old ladies
@dominickb70464 жыл бұрын
What a wonderful story , as a grandfather of 8 it inspires me to do more for my grandchildren. Thank you so much!,
@pamil19234 жыл бұрын
craig davidson - Thank you for your heartfelt story, you were blessed to have a grandad to do stuff with, both my granddads died when I was just a wee lad and so I don’t remember them. I love the poem, IF, it’s probably my favorite and I listen to it often.👍🏼☮️
@craigdavidson22784 жыл бұрын
@Eric Van ....I got that from my dad......my sanctuary was grandads home
@malcolmyoung78665 жыл бұрын
My favourite poet and author..But having spent 22 years in Her Britannic Majesty's Armed Forces' that should not surprise anyone I guess....Did I see a tear welling up at the very end of 'IF', Lance? If so, welcome to the club...
@randomperson86955 жыл бұрын
Thank you for your service, Malcolm. -Your US brother in service to NATO.
@marktaylor86595 жыл бұрын
I knew nothing more about Rudyard Kipling other than "The Jungle Book" and "Captain Courageous" until watching this episode. Thank you for sharing about his life.
@Invictus43182 жыл бұрын
I live in Staffordshire, England. Just 5 miles up the road from me is a little village called Rudyard that has a lovely reservoir called Rudyard Lake which was built in 1799. Rudyard Kiplings parents (John Lockwood Kipling & Alice McDonald) met at the lake when they were on a trip from Burslem, Stoke On Trent, England. They liked the village so much that they named their son after it, Rudyard Kipling. There’s a random piece of local history from my area for you 🙂
@moiraclegg33803 ай бұрын
Thank you for this beautiful story. I just read the tales where Boots writes about Ravager. Loved Ravager so much!
@comesahorseman2 жыл бұрын
"If" is one of the greatest poems ever written, IMO.
@dalekidd4205 жыл бұрын
Kipling's writing was so very memorable. As you quoted "The Jungle Book", I found myself quoting it along with you... text I have not read these past forty years or more. I recall that in my early teens, an avid outdoorsman growing up in the wilds of northern Ontario, I selected a verse to be used as my own epitaph in case I should meet with misfortune: it was from Mowgli's "Song of the Little Hunter", and I felt it defined my being at the time.
@571951rhoehn15 жыл бұрын
"If" is one of the great pieces of poetry ever written. Thank you for remembering a tragic figure, a fine writer, and I believe a study of man v the world.
@jeffpenberthy70855 жыл бұрын
A marvelous edition of your program delivered with true heart THG! Although Australian, many years ago I was a Time magazine bureau chief in New Delhi, and covered a lot of the old Kipling territories, so this resonated so much. But I have admired the thoroughness, care, style and breadth of subjects in all your programs. Hope you, your good wife, and cat, can keep up this the obviously happy work for many a good year.
@tahosaeditingservices6957 Жыл бұрын
My school concentrated on Shakespeare and authors from the United States. A lot of them I didn't understand as a student. Your story helps me to understand why I was attracted to Rudyard Kipling's writings. I could actually understand it. I've used his line, "You're a better man than I, Gunga Din" over the years, and no one understood it. I need to read more Kipling. Thank you.
@Jen999 Жыл бұрын
Always I cry when the poignant words of IF are read .. and now I know why ⚘ Thank you for this achingly beautiful documentary on the life .. and tragic losses ., of Rudyard Kipling⚘ Jen999💜💙
@LostInThe0zone5 жыл бұрын
Prior to today, I only knew his name. Your telling of his life brought tears to my eyes. I now intend to read all of his works because I feel I have an understanding of him.
@farmerned65 жыл бұрын
“Have you news of my boy Jack? ” Not this tide. “When d’you think that he’ll come back?” Not with this wind blowing, and this tide. “Has any one else had word of him?” Not this tide. For what is sunk will hardly swim, Not with this wind blowing, and this tide. “Oh, dear, what comfort can I find?” None this tide, Nor any tide, Except he did not shame his kind- Not even with that wind blowing, and that tide. Then hold your head up all the more, This tide, And every tide; Because he was the son you bore, And gave to that wind blowing and that tide! for John Kipling or Jack Cornwell
@janeminwell43955 жыл бұрын
A truly beautiful poem by one of my favourite authors. Loved all the stories in the Jungle Book as a child.
@farmerned65 жыл бұрын
@@janeminwell4395 "The boy is safe, and it was I--I--I that caught Nag by the hood last night in the bathroom." Then he began to jump up and down, all four feet together, his head close to the floor. "He threw me to and fro, but he could not shake me off. He was dead before the big man blew him in two. I did it!" " Rikkitikki-tck-tck! Come then,Nagaina. Come and fight with me. You shall not be a widow long." the story of Rikki-Tikki-Tavi or kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5qzaZWgns-GmtE
@janeminwell43955 жыл бұрын
@@farmerned6 Toomai of the Elephants was and is a favourite. Kala Nag, wonderful .
@thereforeayam4 жыл бұрын
"for"
@Martin-tn5lm8 ай бұрын
Thanks for the wording of the verse. Here in West Ireland the old people made the blowing "wind" rhyme with "bind" as Kipling intended too. To my long-passed father Kipling's store of tales and poems was a treasure - as it is to me now.
@WaltzingAustralia5 жыл бұрын
I was introduced to Kipling by my father, who read the Just So Stories to me when I was a child. I can still quote lines that delighted me ("...the banks of the great grey-green, greasy Limpopo River, all set about with fever-trees" or "on an uninhabited island on the shores of the Red Sea, there lived a Parsee"). I have since then read a large number of Kipling's books, including some of the less well known ones, such as the slightly autobiographical "Stalky and Company." Interesting to see all these works put in context of his own life. Always enjoy your programs, but this one resonated for me.
@jaydenronnie31552 жыл бұрын
Hi 👋
@danielgalan4342 жыл бұрын
“If history were taught in the form of stories, it would never be forgotten.”
@picklesthewise4 жыл бұрын
One of my favorite writers. I loved the Jungle Book and Just So stories growing up and found his other works and poetry later. Despite the fantastical descriptions of his children's stories, his more "grown up" works had a lot more brutal realism and tragedy, but also a staunch sympathy for his fellow man. Never tire of reading them.
@thelightbearer80505 жыл бұрын
Buddy, you are a great educator, the world needs many more people like you!
@araeagle38295 жыл бұрын
A fantastic video as always. I had not realised just how tragic Kipling's life was. It brings me to the edge of weeping on his behalf. "IF" has been my favorite poem since I first read it at age 16. I will be forever grateful to my high school literature teacher, Ms Blakenship for introducing it to me. An elaborate framed copy was given to me for my Eagle Scout court of honor. It is still precious to me.
@Tourist19675 жыл бұрын
"If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster / and treat those two impostors just the same." is inscribed above the players entrance at Wimbledon's Centre Court.
@MarkSmith-js2pu5 жыл бұрын
Araeagle, congrats to You and MS Blankenship
@frankycompagnone73565 жыл бұрын
You out did yourself with this one.. Many thanks as he is still my favorite author .at the end you brought a tear to my eye, and I thank you sir.
@davidzuk4 жыл бұрын
I first heard 'If' in high school and then memorized the poem a few months after. The poem helped center me when my life seemed to be falling apart, and humble me when I felt on top of the world. Kipling had a gift of putting a persons sentiment into words, and I'm glad to remember them today.
@cc1k4352 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this. I had been prepared to hear some terrible tales about Kipling in India while it was under British rule, so I've always put off looking into his personal story. Like everyone else, though, his life was complicated and often sad like so many writers, and I will appreciate that about him when re-reading his work in the future.
@itsjohndell5 жыл бұрын
I've saved my comment for here rather than Patreon . This may be the best and most important video yet. A story not only to be remembered, but one too little known. Thank you, Lance.
@VentureStudioSolutions5 жыл бұрын
Really excellent and respectful video, really appreciate you not assaulting his legacy because of a narrow political view he held. It seems to be nearly impossible to find historical topics and events presented without superimposing contemporary, popular opinion. Thank you
@EnTeaJay5 жыл бұрын
mister ichi you are right. Not only have we become the PC police, but also are mostly incapable of understanding other times, cultures and places. The patriotism Kipling not only wrote about, but demonstrated in his own life at such a high cost should be admired and emulated.
@shadysif62205 жыл бұрын
You mean the fact that Kipling was a pro imperialist. Or in modern terms a white supremacist. No one made him write "White Man's Burden". it's no coincidence that many of the same people who are quick to defend his diseased belief about genetic supremacy, are of the same race. And claim to be Christians, but act nothing like Christ. Your statement is thanking him for excluding relevant history. He was a rabid racist, who believed Whites were superior, and that it was a God given duty to "civilize", the natives. Stealing and slaughtering for the "greater good". Which led to civil wars, attempted genocides, world wars, the use of nuclear weapons, even more unstable regions, unholy alliances that created even more enemies, and bitter disputes that lead to more deaths to this day. Yep, Kipling and his beloved imperialist were right all along. Now, who were the real savages?
@marilynkonrad84975 жыл бұрын
Mister ichi. I agree with you. I enjoyed the video tremendously. The narrow political view he held was of his time and mind set. He contributed so much to the world. His Stirling observations shine through In his writing. Holding onto your beliefs publicly is a challenge both now and looking back in history. I have always admired this man since childhood. Being almost 79. I’m not going to change. A very wise man.
@shadysif62205 жыл бұрын
@@Rio_Seco You mean the advocates of historical accuracy. Either something is factual or it isn't.
@shadysif62205 жыл бұрын
@@Rio_Seco One positive would be the imperialist learning about God and Christ from the some of the very people they called themselves converting. Because most of them used the Bible as a tool of oppression, as they were too arrogant and filled with self righteous hubris to have a clue about real Christianity.
@markblix68805 жыл бұрын
I am 63 years old and have known of Rudyard Kipling for a long time. Now I know something about him. Thanks THG.
@feroz59274 жыл бұрын
Your rendition of Kipling's poem IF was superb. I also enjoyed your narration of his tragic life. As a child, I always liked Kipling's Jungle Book, and so did my son.
@jbisntme4 жыл бұрын
When I first read Kiplings “ IF “ I became spellbound by the words. I couldn’t stop reading it , over and over again. Not to memorize , but to let those words sink deep into my soul. For I truly believed that I was reading “ truth “. A blueprint on how I should live my life .
@JonSauter5 жыл бұрын
I used to get water for my grandfather during his ending days. He called me Gunga Din and I rolled my eyes. It was a joke and I felt inconvenienced as I was a teenager and didn't think he would be gone soon. I thought there was time left. Then he was dead. Thank you for this history that should be remembered. I assume he knew Gunga Din from a movie, or maybe he read the story at some time. I have his US Navy civilian credentials from when he worked. He grew from the typest pool to a manager that dealt with Nazi captured technology. My son and I watch your channel now and I have learned so much. He asks now to watch about u boats and the wars. Keep it up, we appreciate it.
@DawnSuttonfabfour4 жыл бұрын
He knew gunga din (or men like him) in reality; he was born and brought up in India. And in the poem Kipling wrote, Din was also a hero.
@jeme7339 Жыл бұрын
@@DawnSuttonfabfour "he", here refers to the commenter's grandfather.
@ullyesses-v19845 жыл бұрын
I remember back in the early 70's coming across "If" in an old poetry book at home and choosing it to read in a "Speech" course I was taking in the 9th grade. I've always loved that poem.
@DougMarlowe5 жыл бұрын
As a surviving parent, I know all too well of his pain. Well done!
@jasondifelice15593 жыл бұрын
Wow History Guy, your delivery of "IF" moved me to tears. Don't tell my homies.
@leeh.19004 жыл бұрын
Wow...this was beautiful. I lost my little Granddaughter 2 weeks ago. A child of light and joy...and now she's gone. I think I'll read me some Kipling. Thanks THG...I love your work.
@tonynicholls74405 жыл бұрын
History is one of my passions..... "IF" only I had found this channel sooner,
@mshavisham89645 жыл бұрын
WOW! I LOVE it when you recite poetry. You have the dramatic timing and voice for it. Well done. Thoroughly enjoyed this episode today. Thank you for all your hard work. I truly appreciate all you do for us. 😊 On another note: I lost one child, my 8 yo daughter Elizabeth to a rare cancer. It has made life barely liveable because you see she was my soulmate. The emptiness within me is profound. However, I cannot imagine losing two. I have a son left who was younger than his sister and I'm grateful for him. To think if losing both of them is unfathomable. I cannot imagine losing 💔 two. It would be the end of me.
@Nocturnal_Rites5 жыл бұрын
My sincere and deepest condolences for your loss. I have only one child, who came after two miscarriages. (A double rainbow child, my SIL calls her.) I love my husband and I'd be devastated by his loss, but losing her is the one thing I know that would truly make me (and my husband) break beyond repair.
@mshavisham89645 жыл бұрын
@@Nocturnal_Rites It's very different too for those who get pregnant when the wind blows and what we went thru to have our girls. Took me 5 years to get her and I only got to keep her for 8. Losing her has broken me, you are spot on with that. Some people not so much. Yeah they bury and grieve but they move forward. Have a couple of more kids and there ya go. But then there are others. Thank you so very much for taking the time to express your sympathy. It means a great deal, esp now during the 6 weeks in between her birthday and her date of death. Hardest time of the year along with every holiday. Thanks ❤.
@007jjr5 жыл бұрын
That was an incredible Vlog. "If" at the end profoundly affected me. Thank you. I intend to pick up his literature.
@tristamharrington17263 жыл бұрын
Thank you very much for your contributions in keeping history alive, especially the forgotten and unknown. It is truly history worth remembering.
@nancyanderson5310 Жыл бұрын
Wonderful! I did not know his story, but his works are bone deep in my ingredients. You did a great job of capturing the fragrance and freeing stringency of his tone. Thank you.
@normamoore70245 жыл бұрын
History Guy your oration of “If” was brilliant! I love all of your episodes, but this one was particularly superb! Thank you.👏😊
@anihtgenga40964 жыл бұрын
And did you notice that little catch in his voice in the last sentence?
@WhiteStone214755 жыл бұрын
Thank you seems such a weak phrase to offer for this outstanding, touching episode. I believe I will place this one among my favorites. You have no idea how deeply your works touch those of us who are your fans.
@cuhurun5 жыл бұрын
An absolutely excellent video, thank you for your effort. Must say I really love the 1975 film 'The Man Who Would Be King', starring Michael Caine and Sean Connery, in which Kipling is portrayed in it's prologue and epilogue. For those who haven't seen it, from start to finish it was very well produced, and as entertainment, is still very worthwhile.
@ronjones-69772 жыл бұрын
Thank you for reminding me. I think it's time I go back and re-watch a bunch of John Huston movies.
@malcolmscrivener87502 жыл бұрын
@@ronjones-6977 African Queen
@oscarwarren4692 жыл бұрын
Good brain work...the stuff we can't teach now.
@marshallweaver45552 жыл бұрын
I always loved the writings of Rudyard Kipling. In my graduation from 7th grade, which led to junior high and high school, I was chosen to memorize and recite the poem, "If", to the entire school, faculty and attending parents. I love the poem and it's attending struggle and final success as a man. I have thought of it often throughout my life. I read "The Jungle Book" to all three of my, now grown children, when they were very young. They loved it. I thoroughly enjoy all your posts. Thanks!
@DawnOldham4 жыл бұрын
What a talented man who was burdened with so much tragedy. My heart hurts for him. And yet he pushed himself and all of us to continue to do out very best no matter the circumstances.
@beanowa5496 Жыл бұрын
Burdened by tragedy? The tragedy was he himself with his views. The man was nothing.
@susanhenshaw6225 жыл бұрын
This was one of my father’s favourite poets and now that he has past I remember him reciting If and what a memory that is for me. Thank you history guy :)
@kells47235 жыл бұрын
Lovely man, such a tremendous understanding of humanity. His works are inspired. Thank you for reminding us.
@georgeb87015 жыл бұрын
Very cool. I was enthralled by the really well done movie version of The Man who Would be King. I hadn't known the story before then. Thanks H.G. for this glimpse into the tragic but prolific life of Kipling. RIP Rudyard. ✌🏻
@Froobyone4 жыл бұрын
I lived a few short miles from Bateman's, Kipling's home. So his poems and experiences were never far from my mind growing up. Gunga Din still moves me 50 years later.
@Monster11B5 жыл бұрын
Bravo, Dear Sir. Excellent oratory of this biography. This one made me emotional. Thank you.
@johnlehman61995 жыл бұрын
You sir, are the best! Never have I been brought to tears over history until stumbling upon this KZbin channel! Thank you Lance
@rcknbob15 жыл бұрын
A number of us old soldiers are familiar with Kipling's "Barrack-House Ballads", and his stories of the British soldiery like "Tommy": And its Tommy this, and Tommy that, And Tommy, how's your soul, But it's "thin red line of heroes" when the guns begin to roll. Nationalistic? Yes. Jingoistic? Maybe. But patriotic? Assuredly. And a good counter to "Soldiers and dogs, keep off the grass".
@TheDoctor12255 жыл бұрын
I can't say as I would apply those labels (aside from patriotic) to that poem (which is of course my opinion and worth approximately that much, too! :) ) I believe that poem is, especially today, a very pointed commentary on the way that a great many people view the military (or the police, or EMS, or...) in that it's easy to make fun of them, lump all of them together because of the actions of a few or ignore them UNTIL there's trouble, or battle, or something happens - then suddenly we dust off the title of "hero," "courageous," brave," etc and suddenly they become people we look up to even while we're pushing them to the front to protect us. And it's a DAMNED good counter to the sign you mentioned.
@peterwoods53105 жыл бұрын
"And it's First Class for soldier Atkins when the guns begin to shout".
@thoughtfulkayaker80652 жыл бұрын
Kipling is one of my favorite authors. His lines flow like a symphony, His thoughts both humorous, thought provoking, and memorable. I quote him often to my friends, and other passers by. Thank you.
@kevinstibich62084 жыл бұрын
"When you're wounded and left on Afghanistan's plains, and the women come out to cut up what remains, jest roll to your rifle and blow out your brains and go to your gawd like a soldier" Rudyard Kipling... History repeats itself.
@howardwayne39744 жыл бұрын
That is the first poem of his i learned by heart when I was 10 years old . my teacher asked us to remember a poem to recite in class and I thought since I already knew that one why the hell not . you should have seen her face when I'd finished !!! She looked like she'd been gut shot !! All the boys thought it was the greatest thing ever , but some of the girls were crying , and teacher sent home a letter to my mom . my mom who was a raw boned east Texas woman who was used to cutting down pine trees and slopping hogs laughed so long and loud i thought she would hurt herself. She didn't tell my dad though . he took a dimmer view of such things . god , I miss 'em both so very much .!!!!!!
@5kehhn4 жыл бұрын
I like it! I like it! Ha! Thanks for the post; it's one of his I missed, from back in the day.
@marymarysmarket35084 жыл бұрын
@@howardwayne3974 ah hahaha. What a life you must have had. ☀️
@howardwayne39744 жыл бұрын
@@marymarysmarket3508 yeah, grew up in the Brazes river bottoms of southeast Texas fishing at night for catfish ,softshell turtles and anything else that came my way . Picking cotton in summer and pecans inthe fall . working cattle and breaking horses in between hunting trips. Spent 10 years as a United States Marine with two tours of combat duty in Viet Nam .been married to the same good woman for 46 years and raised a daughter and son . learned a lot about people from both sides of my parents family . my mothers side was old southern with pride in serving in our countries wars since the revolution and brought their cooking with them . my fathers side was Czech (moravian ) that came to Texas in 1870 , so they were relative newcomers . learned to butcher hogs and make sausage and run a smokehouse from them . also my grandmother made the best poppyseed kolaches ever .
@marymarysmarket35084 жыл бұрын
Howard Wayne..you are a rich man! 💰 And a great storyteller. My father also sat seven kids down and read us poetry. From comments here, it was a common practice...of lasting influence. We were raised in Chicago in the 50’s, and like you, had a good strong upbringing. I am Eastern Orthodox and quite familiar w many Eastern European cultures. Great food and super people. Best wishes going forward from our situation now. Things will never be as idyllic as you describe. Sad really. Think I’ll read a bit more Kipling and remember when people and ideals mattered.📕
@TERoss-jk9ny5 жыл бұрын
I watched my Mom and Dad slowly die after first, my little sister was killed when she was 10, then my little brother killed at the age of 20. I’m living proof the good die young, and they take pieces of your being with them. Never to recovered. My heart goes out to this great author.
@brianwillem5 жыл бұрын
T.E. Ross This is a hard burden. There are no words that an comfort.
@TERoss-jk9ny5 жыл бұрын
Harder when you’re the one that’s left. Praying every day YOU don’t die knowing what it will do to your parents. I’m all that’s left, now, so it’s ok. They’re all together! I can’t wait to join them! Thanks for your comment.
@kerrymcdonagh13275 жыл бұрын
@@TERoss-jk9ny "IF" you have done your best, then they are proud of you.
@ThePeaceableKingdom5 жыл бұрын
compassion for your loss
@lautoka635 жыл бұрын
@@TERoss-jk9ny I hear your grief and have nothing to compare with it. However, I wonder how your family would want you to live: I have lost my parents and my brother and try to live in the knowledge that I have life, where they do not, so I should live it to the fullest while I have it.
@marilissh5 жыл бұрын
I can't get enough of these videos. I'm a history enthusiast and I'm certain I would have never heard of some of these stories if not for THG. Thank you for bringing these nearly forgotten tales to our ears as they truly history that deserves to be remembered! P.s. Never let go of your bowties. Rock them until the day you breathe your last! -- Kindest Regards
@dinascharnhorst65905 жыл бұрын
Some of my fondest childhood memories are of my father reading the Just So Stories to me. He loved to draw out the name of Suleiman bin Daoud for all it was worth. Beautifully, poignantly presented. Thank you.
@jaydenronnie31552 жыл бұрын
Hello 🌹
@marthagiza48842 жыл бұрын
My father introduced me to Kipling when I was an adolescent. I found this little history fascinating and touching, thank you.
@williamashbless79042 жыл бұрын
There was a famous greeting card that featured a nerd reading a book under an apple tree. A voluptuous brunette(could’ve been blonde) approaches him and the nerd asks her: “Do you like Kipling?” To which the brunette responds with: “I don’t know, you naughty boy, I’ve never Kippled.” Consistently some of the finest content this platform offers. Thank you.
@catcook33245 жыл бұрын
"IF", one of the greatest English language poems ever written. In "St Martin's Lane" (1938) Charles Laughton does a wonderful recitation of it while he schools Vivian Leigh on the fine points of being a busker. Worth a watch!
@ownpetard83794 жыл бұрын
"busker" street/public place entertainer for donations
@eddiechavez7075 жыл бұрын
I loved this episode. I loved the cadence, the emphasis on certain words when you recite. You make history come alive. Thank you
@mikes13455 жыл бұрын
Discovered kiplings books in jr high. Read a number of them and enjoyed his style. Thanks for reminding an old guy of stories past. Think its time to reread these.
@UncaDave2 жыл бұрын
Well done! The poetry reminds me of how much we miss words that cause us to reflect. This has become a tragic loss in itself in these present days.
@jennaolbermann76634 жыл бұрын
My father used to read me Just So Stories when I was little. Thank you for telling Mr. Kipling’s story. Very tragic but worth remembering.
@TheMenon495 жыл бұрын
Thanks a million for this video! My first brush with Kipling was when I had 'Kim' as my secondary English textbook in school back in Bombay. I had fallen in love with the eponymous Kim! Did you know that there stands a 'Kim's Cannon' at Lahore in Pakistan to this day? The large sprawling building in Bombay where Rudyard was born, still stands. It houses the well known J J School of Arts.....
@TheMenon495 жыл бұрын
Not Pakistan, uncletigger. His old home is in Mumbai, India. The J J School of Arts is a well known institution
@TheMenon495 жыл бұрын
@uncletigger Mea culpa! I took it for granted everyone knows that Bombay was the old name for Mumbai!
@TheMenon495 жыл бұрын
@uncletigger If saner sense doesn't prevail -- and very soon---- we're in for the mother of all wars: WORLD WAR III! The two previous World Wars would look like schoolkids squabbling in the school yard!
@WesternAustraliaNowAndThen5 жыл бұрын
My father used to quote Kipling frequently. Very interesting to learn about Kipling's life.
@hyfy-tr2jy5 жыл бұрын
THG...as always a great addition to your library. I note you are taking on a "Ken Burns" style of storytelling....but you do the content, editing AND narration. You my friend are most impressive
@mitzyismad4 жыл бұрын
For reasons of my own I found this your best 'History Guy'. My mother read Kipling to me as a very young child, I still have the book. My favourite phrase, which she often repeated, was from 'The Ballad of East and West'. "Oh, East is East, and West is West, and never the twain shall meet, Till earth and sky stand presently at God's great Judgement Seat; But there is neither East nor West, Border, nor Breed, nor Birth, When two strong men stand face to face, though they came from the ends of the earth!" Love your work.
@jeanlouisfrenette5342 жыл бұрын
The Canadian Engineers are reminded daily of Rudyard Kipling. In 1922 a Calling For an Engineer was created in Montreal Canada. At graduation a closed ceremony is performed, reciting a Pledge written by Rudyard Kipling. At the close of the ceremony the engineer is given an iron ring to be worn on the pinky finger of the writing hand. Wikipedia describe the process in " Ritual of the Calling of an Engineer"; it describe in details the participation of Rudyard Kipling in the ritual ceremony. Thank you for the story.
@markdonnelly19135 жыл бұрын
Another great snippet. Your passion for your subject matter is infectious, and your enthusiasm always make your episodes both informative and highly entertaining