Rudyard Kipling (1865-1939) was an English short-story writer, poet, and novelist, best known for The Jungle Book. Kipling wrote in Victorian England, and the following poem is considered representative of the ideal qualities of a proper Englishman during that time. Using a paternal tone, the speaker makes a list of rules to live by. This poem is for grade 8 students. As you read, take notes on the advice the speaker offers. This poem can be found in the public domain.