Read the stanza from "Invictus."

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.

Question
How does the structure of "Invictus" affect the poem?
Responses

The rhyme and meter are bouncy and light, communicating the speaker's decision to ignore those who criticize him.

The rhyme and meter are bouncy and light, communicating the speaker's decision to ignore those who criticize him.

The rhyme and meter are somber and military-like, communicating the speaker's determination to reach his goals.

The rhyme and meter are somber and military-like, communicating the speaker's determination to reach his goals.

The rhyme and meter are halting and uneven, helping the speaker communicate his fear of the future.

The rhyme and meter are halting and uneven, helping the speaker communicate his fear of the future.

The rhyme and meter are harsh and sharp, helping the speaker communicate his severe emotional pain.

1 answer

The most accurate response regarding the structure of "Invictus" is:

The rhyme and meter are somber and military-like, communicating the speaker's determination to reach his goals.

This reflects the poem's tone of resilience and strength despite adversity, emphasizing the speaker's control over their own destiny. The consistent meter and structured rhyme scheme contribute to the powerful, assertive message of self-mastery and determination.