fl. c. 1900
Walter D. Wintle
Little-known poet remembered for one poem, "Thinking" ("If you think you are beaten, you are"), printed around the turn of the twentieth century and reprinted endlessly since.
Every line we carry
Each one links to its source, what it means, and the shirt in any of our looks.
- If you think you are beaten, you are.
Wintle's opening line is the whole poem in seven words. The battle is lost in the head before it is lost anywhere else. Watch what you tell yourself.
"Thinking" (c. 1905), Original English (Wikisource text, published before 1931)
- You've got to think high to rise.
You will not climb above the height you aim for. Wintle says set the target high, then go. Small thinking keeps you on the ground.
"Thinking" (c. 1905), Original English (Wikisource text, published before 1931)
- Success begins with a fellow's will. It's all in the state of mind.
Before skill, before luck, comes the decision to try. Wintle says the outcome starts in your will. Settle your mind and the rest can follow.
"Thinking" (c. 1905), Original English (Wikisource text, published before 1931)
- Life's battles don't always go to the stronger or faster man.
Talent and speed matter, but they do not settle everything. Wintle says the race often goes to the one who believes and keeps going. If you are not the strongest, be the most stubborn.
"Thinking" (c. 1905), Original English (Wikisource text, published before 1931)
- Soon or late the man who wins is the man who thinks he can.
The closing line explains the whole poem. Over time, confidence plus effort beats doubt plus talent. Think you can, then prove it.
"Thinking" (c. 1905), Original English (Wikisource text, published before 1931)