W.E. Henley

Out of the night that covers me
Black as the pit from pole to pole
I thank what ever Gods may be
For my unconsquerable soul

In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cry aloud
Under the blugeonings of chance
My head is bloodied but unbowed

Beyond this place of wraith and tears
Looms but the horror of the shade
Yet the menace of the years
Finds and shall find me unafraid

It matters not how straight the gate
How charged with punishment the scroll
I am the master of my fate
I am the captain of my soul

It matters not how straight the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate:
I am the Captain of my soul.

I am the master in my fate; I am the captain of my soul.