Poem and Prayer for an Invading Army

Name: Poem and Prayer for an Invading Army
Author: Edna St. Vincent Millay

The work is a poignant reflection on the duality of war, addressing both the soldiers who fight and the civilians who support them. It begins with a call to action, emphasizing the importance of collective effort in the war effort, highlighting the roles of workers in various industries who contribute to the military's success. The speaker acknowledges the physical and emotional toll of war, recognizing the sacrifices made by those who cannot fight but still play a crucial role. As the poem progresses, it shifts to a more spiritual tone, invoking a higher power for guidance and support. The speaker expresses a desire for peace and a longing for the return of soldiers, while also grappling with the harsh realities of war and the inevitability of loss. There is a plea for humility and reflection on the nature of humanity, urging a rejection of hatred and violence. The work culminates in a prayer for the soldiers, asking for their safe return and for the strength to confront the underlying issues that lead to conflict. It emphasizes the need for unity and understanding among people, advocating for a world where love and compassion prevail over animosity. The speaker calls for a collective commitment to peace, urging individuals to reflect on their roles in fostering a more just and humane society. The overall tone is one of hope intertwined with the somber acknowledgment of the sacrifices made in the name of freedom and justice.

By Edna St. Vincent Millay · First published 1943 · Genre: War Poetry, Religious Poetry, Patriotic Literature · 1,753 words

First lines

(Written to be broadcast over the NBC Network on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Read by Ronald Colman.)

They must not go alone into that burning building! -which today is all of Europe!

What this Textopian page supports

Poem and Prayer for an Invading Army is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay, dated 1943 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Edna St. Vincent Millay
Date: 1943 CE
Language: English
Genres: War Poetry, Religious Poetry, Patriotic Literature, Lyric Poetry, Social Commentary
Length: 1,753 words
Structure: 1 section, 40 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

War Poetry — The poem addresses the themes of war, sacrifice, and the emotional turmoil associated with conflict, making it a prime example of war poetry.
Religious Poetry — The poem incorporates prayer and appeals to a higher power, reflecting spiritual themes and the search for divine guidance during wartime.
Patriotic Literature — The work expresses themes of national pride and collective effort in the face of war, resonating with patriotic sentiments.
Lyric Poetry — The poem's personal and emotional tone aligns with the characteristics of lyric poetry, focusing on individual feelings and reflections.