Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, VI ET ARMIS, by ANDREW DOWNING


Poetry Explorer

Classic and Contemporary Poetry

VI ET ARMIS, by                    
First Line: Tis an ancient roman proverb
Last Line: You can conquer if you will!
Subject(s): Courage; Life; Strength; Victory; Valor; Bravery


'T IS an ancient Roman proverb:
"Whoso braveth desperate odds,
Wins the potent stars to aid him,
And the favor of the gods!"

Every brave and strong endeavor
Helps heroic souls to rise
Unto higher heights of triumph —
Nearer to the smiling skies.

Life is but a broad arena —
But a mighty contest-ring,
And the struggle, to the victor,
Doth a glorious guerdon bring.

Be the prize you seek, my brother,
Where the battle-banners flame,
Knowledge, wisdom, hand of woman,
Power, or station, wealth, or fame,

Be the first to join the onset,
Though you traverse flood and fire;
Smite, relentless, every foeman
That would foil your heart's desire.

Knightly faith, and Roman courage,
Live, and hold the vantage still;
Valor wins the victor's garland —
You can conquer if you will!





Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!


Other Poems of Interest...
Home: PoetryExplorer.net