Of the Great White War
The narrative explores the stark contrast between the ideals of honor and sacrifice espoused by the older generation and the grim reality faced by the youth who are sent to war. It highlights the emotional turmoil and societal changes that occur during wartime, where the elderly glorify the concept of chivalry while the young are thrust into the harshness of battle, losing their innocence and vitality. The story delves into the hypocrisy of the older generation, who, while extolling the virtues of sacrifice, continue their lives with little regard for the consequences of war. They celebrate the bravery of the young, yet their actions reveal a self-serving nature, as they prioritize their own comforts and interests over the lives of those they send to fight. As the young men march off to war, the narrative captures their transformation from carefree youth to hardened soldiers, burdened by the weight of expectation and the reality of conflict. The juxtaposition of the aged reveling in their own lives while the youth face the horrors of war serves as a critique of societal values and the often unrecognized sacrifices made by the younger generation. The work ultimately reflects on the cyclical nature of war and the generational divide, questioning the true meaning of honor and sacrifice in a world where the consequences are borne disproportionately by the young. It serves as a poignant commentary on the human condition, the cost of conflict, and the moral complexities that arise in times of war.
By Thomas Burke · First published 1928 · Genre: War Literature, Poetry, Social Commentary · 150 words
First lines
During the years when the white men fought each other, I observed how the aged cried aloud in public places Of honour and chivalry, and the duty of the young; And how the young ceased doing the pleasant things of youth, And became suddenly old, And marched away to defend the aged.
And I observed how the aged Became suddenly young; And mouthed fair phrases one to the other upon the Supreme Sacrifice, And turned to their account-books, murmuring gravely: Business as Usual; And brought out bottles of wine and drank the health Of the young men they had sent out to die for them.
What this Textopian page supports
Of the Great White War is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas Burke, dated 1928 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Thomas Burke
- Date: 1928 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: War Literature, Poetry, Social Commentary, Historical Fiction, Philosophical Fiction
- Length: 150 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Of the Great White War by Thomas Burke
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- War Literature — The book addresses the themes of war, sacrifice, and the impact of conflict on society.
- Poetry — The writing style employs poetic elements, reflecting on deep emotional and philosophical themes.
- Social Commentary — The narrative critiques societal values and the generational divide during wartime.
- Historical Fiction — The context of the Great War provides a historical backdrop for the exploration of its effects on individuals and society.
Tags
war · history · World War I · military · conflict · narrative · British literature · trench warfare · soldiers · camaraderie · loss · survival