Koerner's Battle Prayer
The poem explores the theme of mortality and the fleeting nature of human life. It describes a dying soldier's final thoughts and prayers on the battlefield, where he reflects on his past, his loved ones, and his own impending death. The poem conveys a sense of resignation, acceptance, and longing for transcendence in the face of mortality.
By Eugene Field · First published 1897 · Genre: Religious Poetry, War Poetry, Inspirational Literature · 338 words
First lines
FATHER, I cry to Thee! Round me the billows of battle are pouring, Round me the thunders of battle are roaring; Father on high, hear Thou my cry, -- Father, oh, lead Thou me!
Father, oh, lead Thou me! Lead me, o'er Death and its terrors victorious, -- See, I acknowledge Thy will as all-glorious; Point Thou the way, lead where it may, -- God, I acknowledge Thee!
What this Textopian page supports
Koerner's Battle Prayer is listed on Textopian as a poem by Eugene Field, dated 1897 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Eugene Field
- Date: 1897 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Poetry, War Poetry, Inspirational Literature, Lyric Poetry, Devotional Literature
- Length: 338 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Koerner's Battle Prayer by Eugene Field
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- A Mortul Prayer by James Whitcomb Riley
- Bless God He Went As Soldiers by Emily Dickinson
- Prayer In Time Of War by Edith Nesbit
- Vesta by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Our Master by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Say That We Saw Spain Die by Edna St Vincent Millay
Genres
- Religious Poetry — The work is a prayer that expresses deep spiritual themes and reliance on divine guidance.
- War Poetry — The poem addresses the context of battle and the emotional turmoil associated with war.
- Inspirational Literature — The text aims to inspire faith and courage in the face of adversity.
- Lyric Poetry — The poem employs personal expression and emotional depth typical of lyric poetry.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry · War · Battle · Prayer · Religion · Spirituality · Patriotism · Nationalism · Conflict · Violence · Death