Philosophy by Norman Gale (1916)
The work explores themes of chance, fortune, and the human experience of risk-taking. It reflects on the unpredictability of life, using the metaphor of tossing a coin to illustrate the balance between hope and disappointment. The speaker acknowledges that while outcomes may not always be favorable, the act of engaging with life's uncertainties is inherently valuable. The poem emphasizes the importance of striving and participating, regardless of the potential for failure. It suggests that embracing challenges and seeking joy in experiences, even when luck is not on one's side, contributes to personal growth and fulfillment. The repeated assertion that it is better to have attempted and failed than to have never tried at all reinforces a philosophy of resilience and active engagement with life. The work encourages a proactive approach to existence, advocating for a mindset that values effort and the pursuit of happiness over the fear of loss. It champions the idea that hope and determination can sustain individuals through adversity, urging readers to embrace their circumstances and find meaning in the journey, rather than fixating solely on outcomes.
By Norman Gale · First published 1916 · Genre: Philosophy, Poetry, Literary Fiction · 265 words
First lines
'Tis sometimes Fortune's little joke With vinegar to brim the cup; And on the grass this fickle Lass Makes pennies come the wrong side up. But though a Head instead of Tail Is sure to greet my anxious call, 'Tis better to have tossed, And lost, Than never to have tossed at all.
To do our best in spite of luck, To stop or gallop for the drive, To seek our fun in bronzing sun, Shall cause both head and heart to thrive. And though the penny's face I choose That next the turf is bound to fall, 'Tis better to have tossed, And lost, Than never to have tossed at all.
What this Textopian page supports
Philosophy is listed on Textopian as an essay by Norman Gale, dated 1916 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Norman Gale
- Date: 1916 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Philosophy, Poetry, Literary Fiction, Inspirational, Reflection
- Length: 265 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Philosophy by Norman Gale
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- The World And The Quietist by Matthew Arnold
- Metaphysics by Franklin P. Adams
- East And West by Matthew Arnold
- Religious Isolation by Matthew Arnold
- A Three Sided Question by Oliver Herford
- Nature And Time by Lord Dunsany
Genres
- Philosophy — The title and content reflect philosophical themes regarding chance, fate, and the human experience.
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Literary Fiction — The exploration of deeper themes and human emotions aligns with literary fiction.
- Inspirational — The message encourages resilience and embracing life's uncertainties.
Tags
Philosophical · Analytical · Critical · Theoretical · Abstract · Conceptual · Metaphysical · Epistemological · Ethical · Moral · Existential · Ontological