If I were fierce, and bald, and short of breath, I'd live with scarlet Majors at the Base, And speed glum heroes up the line of death.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The speaker imagines a harsh, surreal scene of war, using vivid imagery to critique military life.
- In plain terms
- He paints a grotesque picture of war and its leaders.
- What can you take from it?
- Use stark imagery to expose the brutality of conflict.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How does absurd imagery affect perception of war?
- Can satire change attitudes toward conflict?
Another view
The surreal tone may alienate some readers.
More from Siegfried Sassoon
I'd say - 'I used to know his father well; Yes, we've lost heavily in this last scrap.' And when the war is done and youth stone dead I'd toddle safely home an…
Permalink to quote #8 Soldiers are dreamers; when the guns begin They think of firelit homes, clean beds, and wives.
Permalink to quote #5 You smug-faced crowds with kindling eye Who cheer when soldier lads march by, Sneak home and pray you'll never know The hell where youth and laughter go.
Permalink to quote #9
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