The Khaki Boys Who Were Not at the Front
The poem explores the theme of cowardice and shame among men who avoided fighting in a war. It describes how these individuals, dressed in khaki uniforms, pretended to be soldiers but never saw combat. The speaker argues that their lack of bravery and sacrifice is a stain on their character, and they will forever be haunted by their inaction.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1898 · Genre: Poetry, War Literature, Inspirational · 263 words
First lines
Oh! it is not just the men who face the guns, / Not the fighters at the Front alone, to-day / Who will bring the longed-for close to the bloody fray, for those / Could not carry on that fray without the ones / Who are working at war's problems far away.
You are _all_ our splendid heroes in the strife, / And we class you with the warriors maimed and scarred, / Though you never have been near enough the battle din to hear, / While you laboured in the dull routine of life / In your khaki suits with sleeves that are not barred.
What this Textopian page supports
The Khaki Boys Who Were Not at the Front is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1898 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: 1898 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, War Literature, Inspirational, Historical
- Length: 263 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Khaki Boys Who Were Not at the Front by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a clear poetic structure and rhythm.
- War Literature — The themes revolve around war, specifically focusing on those who contribute to the war effort away from the front lines.
- Inspirational — The content aims to uplift and honor those who serve in non-combat roles, emphasizing their importance and valor.
- Historical — The context and references are tied to a specific historical period, likely World War I, reflecting the societal attitudes and contributions of that time.
Tags
War Poetry · Anti-War · Pacifism · Social Commentary · Critique of Militarism · American Literature · Early 20th Century · Free Verse · Political Poetry · Satire · Irony · Criticism of Imperialism