Ann Parry, in her work The Poetry of Rudyard Kipling, notes that the question of Kipling's status as a true poet has been “perpetually debated.” She references writer T. R. Henn’s response to this debate: “When his technical mastery, variety and craftsmanship have all been recognized, it has to be said that ‘Kipling, nearly, but never wholly achieved greatness . . . the ultimate depth was lacking.’” Examine several of Kipling’s poems of your choice and discuss the following in an essay: Do you believe Kipling’s work demonstrates “technical mastery?” Why or why not? Do you agree or disagree with the assertion that Kipling’s work lacks “ultimate depth?” Provide examples to support your viewpoints.

Kipling penned “If” in 1910. Investigate other poets who were writing and publishing in England or the United States during the same period. Compare and contrast Kipling’s style with that of another poet from the same era.

“If” was first published in Kipling’s collection of children’s stories, Rewards and Fairies, as an accompaniment to the story “Brother Square-Toes,” which features George Washington as a character. Read “Brother Square-Toes.” Write a brief essay explaining how “If” complements the short story.

“If” is composed in a strict meter, with each stanza containing eight lines that rhyme abab cdcd. The “a” and “c” lines have eleven syllables each, while the “b” and “d” lines have ten syllables each, all written in iambic pentameter. Using the structure of “If,” compose your own didactic poem on a topic of your choice.