Don't Quit Poem
Edgar A. Guest offers uplifting inspiration on perseverance and resilience in his Don't Quit poem.
Updated July 12, 2025, by Catherine Pulsifer
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.
Don't Quit
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.
Key Messages in this poem, Don't Quit:
-
Keep Pushing Forward
Life has its ups and downs, and challenges will come. But as Don’t Quit reminds us, tough times don’t last forever. Even when progress feels slow, taking one step at a time will move you closer to your goal. Rest if you need to, but never give up—the effort you put in today can lead to success tomorrow.
-
You’re Closer Than You Think
How many people have given up when they were just steps away from achieving what they worked so hard for? This poem reminds us that success often comes right after the hardest struggles. Instead of quitting when things seem difficult, keep going—you may be closer than you realize.
-
Failure Isn’t the End
Setbacks happen to everyone, but they don’t define your future. What seems like failure could actually be part of your success story. As Guest says, “Success is failure turned inside out.” The key is to keep trying, even when things seem toughest. The moment you push through could be the moment your breakthrough arrives.
Don’t Quit is a reminder that persistence pays off. No matter how hard things get, don’t let struggles stop you from moving forward. Often, the biggest victories come after the hardest battles. Stay strong, keep believing, and never give up, your success may be just around the corner.
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.
Popular Pages:
Conclusion
Remember, when life gets tough, it’s easy to feel like quitting is the only option. Challenges can weigh you down, and setbacks may make success seem impossible. But quitting often means stopping just before a breakthrough. Instead of viewing obstacles as roadblocks, see them as stepping stones to something greater. Each hardship you overcome builds strength and resilience, shaping you into a stronger, wiser person.
Success doesn’t come from avoiding struggles—it comes from pushing through them. The truth is, failure is not the final destination; it’s just part of the journey. Every great achievement was once met with difficulty, but those who refused to give up found victory on the other side. Even when the path feels uncertain, trust that perseverance will lead you forward.
So when you feel discouraged, take a deep breath, rest if you need to, but don’t give up. Keep going, even when the way is unclear. Often, you’re closer than you realize. Let Don’t Quit be a reminder that persistence pays off, and that the toughest moments often lead to the greatest triumphs. Stay strong, keep believing, and never lose sight of the success that could be just around the corner!
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
