What does Rudyard Kipling mean in his poem if- if you can force your heart and nerve sinew To serve turn long after they are gone?

In the line "If you can force your heart and nerve sinew To serve turn long after they are gone", Kipling is describing the ability to persist and persevere even when one is mentally and physically exhausted.

Here's a breakdown:

* "Force your heart and nerve sinew": This refers to the physical and mental strength needed to continue in the face of adversity. "Heart" symbolizes courage and determination, while "nerve sinew" represents the willpower and resilience to keep going.

* "To serve turn long after they are gone": This is the key phrase. It suggests that even when your heart is weary and your nerves are frayed, you can still push forward. This signifies a level of mental fortitude that transcends physical limitations.

Kipling is saying that true strength lies not in physical prowess, but in the ability to keep going despite exhaustion. It's about summoning inner reserves and continuing to fight for what you believe in, even when your body and mind are screaming for you to quit.

The poem as a whole is about the qualities that make a person truly strong and capable. This line specifically focuses on the importance of perseverance and inner strength even when facing overwhelming challenges.