I AM XTRATUF

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The Crew of the F/V Artic Lady

An Ode to the Crew of the F/V Arctic Lady, who each season work tirelessly through some of the toughest conditions Alaska can throw at them. Words from the Ernest Henley poem “Invictus” which speaks to showing courage in the face of death. A reality that these fishermen face every day out on the water.

Out of the night that covers me, Black as the pit from pole to pole, I thank whatever gods may be For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance I have not winced nor cried aloud. Under the bludgeonings of chance My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears Looms but the Horror of the shade, And yet the menace of the years Finds and shall find me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate, How charged with punishments the scroll, I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul.