Invictus

Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.

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.

1875, William Ernest Henley

In 1875 one of Henley’s legs required amputation due to complications arising from tuberculosis. Immediately after the amputation he was told that his other leg would require a similar procedure. He chose instead to enlist the services of the distinguished surgeon Joseph Lister, who was able to save Henley’s remaining leg after multiple surgical interventions on the foot. While recovering in the infirmary, he was moved to write the verses that became “Invictus”. This period of his life, coupled with recollections of an impoverished childhood, were primary inspirations for the poem.

A beautiful pair of slightly asymmetrical earrings for invincible you. Feature gorgeous clay Scorched Earth dangles that resemble shells and bits of tattered reclaimed sari silk fiber (India). Coolest turquoise blue + silver glaze, vibrant cardinal red, and China bone white palette for a beach day, a festival, a night of wandering. With lovely French ear wires.

Charming, one of a kind, ready to ship.

Remember to click on the photos below to enlarge.