Introduction
In a time of hardship and challenge, some of the most powerful literature is often born. During World War I, poets from around the world captured their experiences, fears, courage and hope in verses that remain timeless. In this article, we look at the works of some of the best war poets of 1917 and explore how the themes of war and battle inspired powerful stories and expressions of sentiment.
A Brief Overview of World War I
World War I began in 1914 and ended in 1918 following an armistice declared on the 11th of November. It was the most brutal and destructive war to have taken place up until then, and drew in almost every major country in Europe, as well as some nations in Asia, North and South America, and Africa. The war saw the introduction of new technologies, most notably mustard gas and aerial attacks, that changed both the nature of battle and the experiences of those involved.
Brave Expression in Times of War
The poets of the time handled theirtraumatic experiences of battle and nearly constant loss of life in remarkable ways. Through their poems, they expressed their emotions such as sorrow and despair, as well as their courage and search for peace. Siegfried Sassoon’s poem, “Atrocities” for example, expresses both rage and compassion for his fellow soldiers:
“‘I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year:
Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown.
And he replied:
Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God.
That shall be to you better than light and safer than a known way.”
Sassoon’s evocative words emphasise both his anger and his faith in spite of tragic circumstances. His works, and those of fellow poets, demonstrate an immense bravery in being able to continue to express oneself when living through a time of unspeakable hardship.
Notable War Poets of 1917
The most renowned poets of the time include Wilfred Owen, Siegfried Sassoon, Rupert Brooke and Robert Graves. Owen’s work is perhaps the most famous of the period, with poems like “Dulce et Decorum Est” and “Anthem for Doomed Youth” gaining widespread recognition. He wrote honestly and unflinchingly about his experiences of war and the mental anguish of those who fought. Little of his poetry was published during his lifetime, however his skill and unique approach has been recognised and appreciated in the decades since his death.
Sassoon, who was a mentor for Owen, captures the same emotions, but often portrays a darker, more sorrowful tone than his contemporary. One of his best known poems, “The Survivors” for example, is a haunting exploration of the effects of war and its lingering legacy:
“We were survivors, we were foolscap
Tattered by wind and fire;
Fragmentary documents caught
In the pitiless hush of time.”
Brooke and Graves were friendlier in tone, writing more of love, heroism and honour. Brooke often uses a narrative style to tell stories of bravery and courage, while Graves imparts a sense of sensitivity and emotional understanding of the human cost of war.
Legacy
One of the most lasting impressions of the war poets of 1917 is their ability to express courage and heightened emotion despite the difficulties of the time. While their writing is often dark and saddening, but simultaneously uplifting and inspiring in its humanity. The poets of the time have come to symbolise the courage and resilience in the face of great adversity, and the power of language to convey emotion in a way that transcends time and place. Thus, the works of these poets remain both a reminder of the suffering of war and a beacon of hope in troubled times.
Facts and Figures
World War I was a devastating conflict; over 15 million military personnel and civilians lost their lives, and another 21 million were left wounded. It is estimated that five million soldiers were killed in action, while the majority of civilian losses were due to malnutrition and disease. In total, more than two million horses were reported to have died during the war.
These figures are a stark reminder of the human toll and suffering of the war and make it even more important to remember and appreciate the works and writers that were inspired by the conflict.
Tools for Understanding and Healing
The works of these influential poets can be more than just a source of entertainment; they can also be a useful tool for understanding and healing. In the 21stcentury, we are confronted with global conflicts, natural disasters and economic issues, as well as other forms of suffering that may be difficult to comprehend. By moving through the insight and compassion of great war poets, their work can offer meaningful and validating insight that may help us to understand current situations and seek the best paths forward.
Summary
The poets of 1917 were brave enough to express their innermost emotions and experiences of the time. Wilfred Owen, Siegfried Sassoon, Rupert Brooke and Robert Graves all deserve to be remembered for their courage and the strength of their words. By remaining an important part of our collective memory, their work can also provide powerful lessons and insight in times of trouble.
