The Target - Ivor Gurney
I shot him, and it had to be
One of us 'Twas him or me.
'Couln't be helped' and none can blame
Me, for you would do the same
My mother, she cant sleep for fear
Of what might be a-happening here
To me. Perhaps it might be best
To die, and set her fears at rest
For worst is worst, and worry's done.
Perhaps he was the only son. . .
Yet God keeps still, and does not say
A word of guidance anyway.
Well, if they get me, first I'll find
That boy, and tell him all my mind,
And see who felt the bullet worst,
And ask his pardon,if I durst.
All's a tangle. Here's my job.
A man might rave, or shout, or sob;
And God He takes takes no sort of heed.
This is a bloody mess indeed.
"The Target" is a poem written by the English poet Ivor Gurney, who was known for his work during World War I. The poem reflects on the brutality and futility of war, depicting soldiers as mere pawns in a larger, senseless conflict.
The Fear – Wilfrid Wilson Gibson
I do not fear to die
'Neath the open sky,
To meet death in the fight
Face to face, upright.
But when at last we creep
Into a hole to sleep,
I tremble, cold with dread,
Lest I wake up dead.
The Fear" is a poem written by the English poet Wilfrid Wilson Gibson, who also wrote about the experiences of soldiers during World War I. The poem captures the haunting atmosphere of war, where soldiers are plagued by fear and uncertainty in the darkness of the night.
Here's is the comparison of the both poem in terms of subject, style of writing and patriotism:
Subject:-
The poem ' The target' reflects on the brutality and futility of war, depicting soldiers as mere pawns in a larger, senseless conflict. It conveys the idea that death is indiscriminate and inevitable in war, regardless of one's courage or preparedness. Gurney's use of imagery and language emphasizes the grim reality of warfare and its toll on humanity.and other poem ' The fear' captures the haunting atmosphere of war, where soldiers are plagued by fear and uncertainty in the darkness of the night. Gibson vividly describes the eerie sounds and sensations that unsettle the soldiers as they wait in their trenches. The poem conveys the longing for the safety and familiarity of daylight, contrasting the harsh realities of war with the comforts of normal life.
Style of writing:-
Gurney's use of imagery is stark and evocative, depicting the brutality of warfare and the grim fate that awaits soldiers. The repetition of "Three times three" emphasizes the relentless cycle of destruction, while phrases like "weapons, deadly, massive, and immense" convey the overwhelming power of war's machinery.In "The Fear" by Wilfrid Wilson Gibson, the writing style reflects the poet's focus on the psychological and emotional toll of war on soldiers. Gibson employs vivid imagery and sensory details to convey the eerie atmosphere of the battlefield, using phrases like "A whisper in the night wind" and "Each man listens for his comrade's breathing" to evoke a sense of tension and apprehension
Patriotism:
As for patriotism, Gurney's poem takes a different approach compared to conventional notions of patriotism. Instead of glorifying war or celebrating national pride, Gurney presents a sobering critique of conflict. The poem highlights the futility of fighting and the tragic loss of life it entails, suggesting that true patriotism lies in working towards peace and preserving human dignity rather than blindly following orders to engage in violence. Regarding patriotism, Gibson's poem offers a nuanced perspective on the concept. While there may not be explicit displays of overt patriotism in the traditional sense, the poem's portrayal of soldiers grappling with their fears and longing for the safety of daylight can be interpreted as a commentary on the sacrifices made by those who serve their country in times of war.
