What Tragic Fate Awaited the Parents in ‘If…’- Unraveling the Mystery of Their Disappearance
What happened to the parents in “If” remains a haunting question that lingers in the minds of readers long after they have finished reading the poem. Kipling’s poignant narrative explores the impact of war on families, particularly the parents who are left behind to grapple with the loss of their children. This article delves into the emotional turmoil and the enduring legacy of the parents in this powerful piece of literature.
The poem “If” by Rudyard Kipling is a reflection on the virtues and qualities that one should possess to face life’s challenges. However, it also serves as a poignant reminder of the pain and suffering caused by war. The parents in the poem are portrayed as individuals who have lost their children in the war, leaving them to grapple with their own grief and the loss of their future.
In the first stanza, Kipling writes, “If you can keep your head when all about you / Are losing theirs and blaming it on you.” This line suggests that the parents have managed to maintain their composure in the face of their unimaginable loss. They have not succumbed to despair or self-blame, which is a testament to their resilience and strength.
The second stanza continues to describe the parents’ ability to endure through adversity. Kipling writes, “If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you / But make allowance for their doubting too.” This line indicates that the parents have learned to trust their own instincts and feelings, even when others question their pain and suffering. They have accepted that others may not fully understand their loss, but they have chosen to focus on their own healing process.
As the poem progresses, Kipling highlights the parents’ unwavering love and dedication to their children. In the fifth stanza, he writes, “If you can wait and not be tired by waiting / Or being lied about, don’t deal in lies.” This line suggests that the parents have learned to be patient and endure the pain of their loss, without resorting to deceit or self-pity. They have chosen to honor their children’s memory by living a life that reflects their values and principles.
The poem concludes with a powerful message about the enduring legacy of the parents. Kipling writes, “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.” This line implies that the parents have accepted their children’s deaths as a part of life’s inevitable challenges. They have chosen to honor their children’s memory by living a life that is both meaningful and fulfilling.
In conclusion, what happened to the parents in “If” is a story of resilience, love, and enduring legacy. Kipling’s poignant narrative captures the emotional turmoil and the unwavering strength of the parents who have lost their children in the war. The poem serves as a reminder that while war may take away lives, it cannot diminish the love and dedication that parents have for their children. The parents in “If” continue to inspire readers with their ability to face life’s challenges and honor their children’s memory.
