After the Battles Are Over
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 · 1,656 words
First lines
[Read at Reunion of the G. A. T., Madison, Wis., July 4, 1872.]
After the battles are over, And the war drums cease to beat, And no more is heard on the hillside The sound of hurrying feet, Full many a noble action, That was done in the days of strife By the soldier is half forgotten, In the peaceful walks of life.
What this Textopian page supports
After the Battles Are Over is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1915 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Date: 1915 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Historical Poetry, War Poetry, Patriotic Poetry, Commemorative Poetry, Narrative Poetry
- Length: 1,656 words
- Structure: 1 section, 22 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for After the Battles Are Over by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering After the Battles Are Over?
- How does this poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Historical Poetry first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Historical Poetry — The poem reflects on historical events, specifically battles and wars, and commemorates the actions of soldiers.
- War Poetry — The central theme revolves around battles, soldiers, and the aftermath of war.
- Patriotic Poetry — The poem expresses strong national pride and admiration for the soldiers who fought for the country.
- Commemorative Poetry — The poem serves to honor and remember the deeds and sacrifices of soldiers.
Tags
Romance · Poetry · American Literature · Women Authors · Love Poems · Heartbreak · Longing · Melancholy · Nostalgia · War Poetry · Loss · Grief