Don't Quit Poem

Edgar A. Guest offers uplifting inspiration on perseverance and resilience in his Don't Quit poem.

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By Catherine Pulsifer, updated November 13, 2024


 It's when things seem worst,  You must not quit.
If you're facing difficulties right now and feel like giving up, you're not alone. Life can be overwhelming, and when you're in the middle of tough times, it can seem impossible to find a way forward. In moments like these, a piece of literature like Edgar A. Guest's poem, "Don't Quit," can offer exactly the encouragement you need. This poem speaks directly to those who are struggling, reminding you that even in the darkest moments, resilience and persistence are key. The message is clear: no matter how tough things seem, you're closer to overcoming the challenge than you might realize.

Reading "Don't Quit" is like receiving advice from someone who's walked the path before. Guest's words are simple but profound, offering reassurance that setbacks and failures are part of life's process. It will remind you that enduring hard times often leads to personal growth and that the strength you find in not giving up can shape your future in ways you can’t yet see. If you’re searching for something to help you through the struggle, this poem is a powerful reminder that perseverance often leads to success, and sometimes, all it takes is the decision to keep going.

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Don't Quit

Poet: Edgar A. Guest

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,
When the funds are low and the debts are high,
And you want to smile but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit -
Rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is queer with its twists and turns.
As everyone of us sometimes learns.
And many a fellow turns about when he
Might have won had he stuck it out.
Don't give up though the pace seems slow -
You may succeed with another blow.

Often the goal is nearer than it seems
To a faint and faltering man;
Often the struggler has given up when he
Might have captured the victor's cup;
And he learned too late when the night came down,
How close he was to the golden crown.

Success is failure turned inside out -
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And when you never can tell how close you are,
It may be near when it seems afar;
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit -
It's when things seem worst,
You must not quit.


When things go wrong, as they sometimes will, When the road you're trudging seems all uphill...
Quotes About Quitting


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Analysis of The Poem, Don't Quit

The poem has resonated deeply with many, offering inspiration and encouragement to persevere in the face of adversity. Sharing motivational poems like this can be a powerful way to uplift and embolden others to persist.

The first stanza reflects on the universal feeling of wanting to give up when confronted with overwhelming challenges. It describes moments when nothing seems to go right, when every task feels insurmountable, and when financial struggles seem never-ending. The poem suggests taking a step back to clear one’s mind but emphasizes the importance of not giving in to the urge to quit. Sometimes, simply pausing allows for new perspectives and solutions that were previously overlooked.

The second stanza explores the peculiar nature of life, where persistence often leads to success. It acknowledges that progress can feel agonizingly slow at times, tempting us to abandon our efforts. Yet, the poet underscores the idea that perseverance is the key to achieving one’s goals.

The third stanza reinforces the notion that our aspirations may be closer than they appear. By continuing to move forward, one step at a time, we might discover that success is just within reach. Quitting, however, guarantees that we will never know how close we truly were.

Finally, the fourth stanza speaks to the importance of resilience in the face of failure or doubt. It reminds us that success may be just around the corner, even when it feels unattainable.

The "Don't Quit" poem, has long inspired readers to persevere through challenges. Its core message is clear: while it may be tempting to give up, true achievement comes from pushing through difficulties, as success could be just around the corner. The message is clear: do not quit.

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So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit - It's when things seem worst, You must not quit.
Never Give Up Poem



About The Poet, Edgar A. Guest

The famous poet , Edgar A. Guest was known for his uplifting poetry that viewed life from a positive perspective, drawing inspiration from everyday experiences and challenges. His relatable style made his work popular, as readers connected with the optimism and encouragement in his words.

Born in England in 1881, Guest moved to the U.S. as a child and spent most of his career at the Detroit Free Press. He also broadcast on NBC radio. Though he held various jobs, his poetry is what made him famous, inspiring millions through his books.

His work remains relevant today because of its universal appeal and hopeful messages.  You can read more of his poems at
Edgar A. Guest Poems .

Edgar A. Guest
Edgar A. Guest


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Frequently Asked Questions About The Poem

  • Who wrote the "Don't Quit" poem?
    The authorship of the "Don't Quit" poem is debated. While some versions are attributed to John Greenleaf Whittier (1807-1892), it is more commonly credited to Edgar A. Guest (1881-1959), who published it in March 1921.


  • What is the meaning of the "Don't Quit" poem?
    The poem encourages perseverance in the face of difficulties. It highlights that challenges and setbacks are a natural part of life, but success often comes to those who keep pushing forward rather than giving up.


  • When was the "Don't Quit" poem published?
    The most widely recognized version of the "Don't Quit" poem, attributed to Edgar A. Guest, was published in March 1921.


  • What are the key themes of the "Don't Quit" poem?
    The key themes of the poem include perseverance, resilience, optimism, and the idea that success often comes after overcoming significant obstacles.


  • Is the "Don't Quit" poem in the public domain?
    The "Don't Quit" poem is believed to be in the public domain, especially the version attributed to Edgar A. Guest, as it was published over 100 years ago.


  • Why is the "Don't Quit" poem so popular?
    The "Don't Quit" poem is popular because its message of perseverance resonates with many people. Its straightforward language and relatable themes make it a timeless source of motivation and encouragement.


  • How has the "Don't Quit" poem been used in motivational speeches?
    The "Don't Quit" poem is often quoted in motivational speeches, self-help books, and seminars to inspire audiences to keep going despite challenges. Its powerful message is frequently used to illustrate the importance of persistence.


  • What are some similar poems to "Don't Quit"?
    Similar famous poems that emphasize perseverance and resilience include If, by Rudyard Kipling, plus more that can be found at Don't You Quit.

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Remember, when life gets tough, it is easy to feel like giving up and quitting is the only solution. Quitting may seem like the easier option, but we often forget that failure is not a final destination. Our journey in life should be filled with resilience and perseverance.




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