The poem explores the theme of war and its aftermath, describing the devastation and loss that remains after battles are fought. It portrays a desolate landscape where death and destruction reign, and laments the loss of young lives cut short by conflict. The speaker reflects on the futility of war, questioning the purpose of such devastating violence and mourning the waste of human life.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1915 · Genre: Historical Poetry, War Poetry, Patriotic Poetry