Question

Every stanza begins with word ‘if’. How does it add to the effectiveness of the poem?

Answer 1

Without the word ‘if’, the poem would remain a simple statement of rules for success. By beginning each stanza with the word if, first of all, the poet implies that every human being has the choice of wanting to be successful in life. This is a more effective way of expression. Also, by using the word if, he puts forward the conditions that will determine success in any sphere.