The phrase "the fell clutch of circumstance" means "the brutal hold of fate." In this context, "fell" suggests something cruel or vicious, and "clutch" implies a grasp or grip, indicating that the speaker is recognizing the harsh and uncontrollable nature of the circumstances they face. Thus, the correct response is the brutal hold of fate.
Read the second stanza of the poem "Invictus" by William Ernest Henley.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.
Question
What does the phrase "the fell clutch of circumstance" mean in the second stanza?
Responses
the unexpected shift of power
the unexpected shift of power
the brutal hold of fate
the brutal hold of fate
the cruel actions of others
the cruel actions of others
the planned events in life
1 answer
1 answer