The Iron Way -- A Poem of The Enduring Pillar (And an "Enduring Pillar" Directory)
Updated: Aug 1
(Content on the Enduring Pillar Symbol:
*************************************
Table of Contents
Words of Introduction
The Poem Itself
Analysis by Mr. C. Kinsley and Co.
"With sentient life, there are three forms of power. physical (actions taken), mental (intellectual), and spiritual (our essense). The first is directly dependant upon the other two, which are often mistaken for each other" -- John Duran
Words of Introduction
Here is a poem I created after a recent realization of mine on the way we either choose or are taught to see life's many pains. As someone who used to experience emotions more intensely than the average person due to a former sensitivity, I found myself suffering strongly from things people take for granted.
This is the lesson I have received from my contemplations on pain, and I hope you will not only understand through this, how life can be for highly-sensitive people, but also see the logic of why we should embrace the suffering we receive. Embrace it, in order to become not only more resilient, but stronger in body and mind.
Cower away from the ability to endure pain, and you will not learn its lessons. Wisdom may often be gained through pain. And it is through pain, that I grew wise beyond my years as a 25 years old man. Hence why I no longer regard pain to be a bad thing by default, but a chance to expand my intellect. Expand it, in the name of Philosocom and its readership.
Lastly, the original melody is from a theme composed in Imperial Japan of WWII, called "Shussei Heishi O Okuru Uta". If you enjoyed it or at least find agreement with it, feel free to share and spread the word. Thanks.
The Poem Itself
Of which I was so terrified from,
The time, to embrace, has rightfully come,
No longer a child, or a sensitive teen,
Once again I've become a better me,
And march, march, march on.
I had enough, being such a passive man,
The one I learned to idolize in school.
No more benefit, no more benefit it can,
Bring to manipulated fools.
As the smith strikes the weapon so rightfully,
And it becomes, stronger, finally…
Now I shall accept the suffering that strikes within me:
The suffering,
Accept it,
And march, march, march on!
Each, action, that is pure with joy,
Is one that can weaken the mind.
And even, if, happiness such man will find,
He shall still be as soft as soy.
Fool, the one, that says life should be easy,
He can't change a world, of merciless apathy!
Now it's time to bring this aspect to Rubinshteinic philosophy:
The suffering,
Accept it,
And march, march, march on!
(I planned, this strength, ever since childhood,
Training in secrecy and solitude).
One of a very bitter nature.
It goes to show you can easily deny the rapture,
At the expanse of preparation, against adversity.
Escapism, is giving up on opportunity,
Even if it entails hunger and ruthless walking,
The suffering,
Embrace it,
And march, march, march on!
There might be always, at life, countless people,
But although, remorselessly, your serenity will cripple,
There is a better, painful solution in store for you:
Prepare, your body, and mind, for life's many careless strikes,
Although some may hurt as unforgiving spikes!
Endure, rest and endure by repeat:
The suffering,
Accept it,
And march, march, march on!
The world, of today, is filled with weaknesses,
A product of a better comfortability.
But while, it brings fun, as millions can witness,
It also decreases our mind's capabilities.
The ability, of the mind to be reforged,
A stronger mind is key for greater choices and demand:
The suffering,
Accept it,
And march, march, march on!
Philosophical Analysis of "The Iron Way – A Poem of The Enduring Pillar" (By C. Kingsley and Co.)
Introduction and Thematic Exploration
"The Iron Way – A Poem of The Enduring Pillar" is a contemplative work that addresses the nature of suffering and its role in human development. The poem is a meditation on pain, suffering, and resilience, drawing from personal experience and broader philosophical reflections. It is framed by an understanding that life’s difficulties, far from being mere sources of misery, serve as challenges through which a person can become more resilient, wise, and self-aware.
Mr. Tomasio, influenced by his Rubinshteinic philosophy, emphasizes the transformative potential of suffering. The repeated motif, "The suffering, Accept it, And march, march, march on!" serves as both a mantra and a call to action, encouraging an active, almost militant acceptance of hardship as a path to self-improvement.
Pain as a Pathway to Growth
The central tenet of the poem is that suffering is not inherently negative; rather, it is a means to cultivate strength, both mentally and physically. The speaker, reflecting on their personal experiences, suggests that embracing pain rather than shunning it leads to wisdom.
This idea aligns with philosophical traditions that view suffering as a necessary component of growth, such as the Stoic belief in enduring hardship to develop virtue or Nietzsche’s concept of "amor fati" – the love of one’s fate, including all suffering.
The poem’s author frames pain as a teacher. The line, "Wisdom may often be gained through pain," underscores this belief. The poem rejects a passive existence, opting instead for a dynamic engagement with suffering. It calls into question modern comfort, which is seen as softening the mind and weakening the spirit.
Symbolism and Metaphor: "The Enduring Pillar"
The poem draws heavily on the metaphor of "The Enduring Pillar," which is a symbol of steadfastness, resilience, and strength in the face of adversity. The Enduring Pillar represents an unyielding stance against the pressures and pain of life. This aligns with the Rubinshteinic philosophy’s emphasis on strength and endurance.
By comparing oneself to an iron pillar, the speaker suggests a transformation from a state of fragility ("a sensitive teen") to one of resilience.
The repetition of phrases like "march, march, march on" evokes a military cadence, suggesting discipline, determination, and a forward-moving momentum. The use of the word "march" aligns suffering with a purposeful, almost inevitable aspect of life – something one does not avoid but faces head-on. The "march" is both literal (a journey through life) and metaphorical (a mental fortitude and relentless pursuit of growth).
Critique of Modern Comfort and Escapism
A notable theme in the poem is its critique of modern comfort and escapism. Mr. Tomasio contends that comfort leads to weakness and intellectual stagnation.
"Each action that is pure with joy, is one that can weaken the mind" suggests that a life focused solely on happiness and ease lacks the transformative edge provided by hardship. The philosopher implies that the pursuit of comfort undermines the development of a strong mind capable of facing life's challenges.
The poem argues that escaping pain ("Escapism, is giving up on opportunity") equates to wasted potential. This perspective is reminiscent of existentialist thought, where facing the inherent difficulties of existence is seen as vital to living authentically. The poem criticizes those who shirk suffering, suggesting that such avoidance only limits their capacity to transcend adversity.
The Call to Embrace Pain: A Heroic Ideal
The call to "embrace pain" is presented as a heroic ideal. By positioning suffering as akin to a "bitter medicine," the poem suggests that while the experience is unpleasant, it is also necessary for achieving a stronger, more resilient state of being.
This aligns with the poem's broader philosophy: only by facing and accepting pain can one attain true growth and wisdom. This perspective may resonate with those who value endurance, self-discipline, and the cultivation of inner strength.
The poem critiques the idea that life should be easy or pain-free. It challenges readers to consider the benefits of hardship, asserting that only through struggle can one achieve true greatness. The author views suffering as a trial in which the mind is "deconstructed, reforged, and transcended." This metaphor of reforging evokes the image of a sword being tempered by fire – a process that makes it stronger.
Reflection on the Poem's Structure and Tone
Structurally, the poem is marked by its rhythmic, almost chant-like repetition of key phrases. This repetition lends a sense of urgency and determination to the work, echoing the idea of "marching on" despite adversity. The tone is resolute and didactic, aiming to persuade the reader to adopt the same stance toward suffering.
The language of the poem is direct and forceful, employing a mixture of declarative statements ("Fool, the one, that says life should be easy") and imperative commands ("Accept it, And march, march, march on!"). This reinforces the speaker’s conviction in the transformative power of pain and their desire to convey this lesson to others.
Philosophical Context: Comparisons and Influences
The poem's themes echo various philosophical traditions. In addition to Stoicism and Nietzschean thought, it also resonates with Buddhist teachings that view suffering as an inescapable part of life and a source of enlightenment when approached with the right mindset. However, unlike the Buddhist path of detachment, this poem advocates a more active engagement with suffering, almost as if wrestling with it.
The poem also shows an awareness of existentialist themes, especially the idea that individuals must find meaning and strength in a seemingly indifferent or even hostile universe. By accepting suffering, Mr. Tomasio creates their own meaning and asserts their own agency.
Conclusion: An Enduring Philosophy of Resilience
"The Iron Way – A Poem of The Enduring Pillar" is a powerful meditation on suffering and resilience. It challenges readers to reconsider their relationship with pain, urging them to see it not as a burden but as a tool for personal and philosophical growth. The poem’s philosophy aligns with a broader tradition of viewing hardship as an essential part of the human experience, one that can lead to profound inner strength and wisdom.
By advocating for the acceptance and embrace of suffering, the poem suggests that true strength comes not from avoiding pain but from enduring it with purpose and courage. This perspective invites readers to reflect on their own experiences with hardship and to consider how they might use these experiences as opportunities for growth and transformation.
.jpg)
Comments