Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Soliloquy 2" by Richard Aldington is a reflective and poignant poem that revises the speaker's earlier perceptions of death in the context of war. This poem, following "Soliloquy 1," shows a shift in the speaker's attitude towards the dead, moving from a perspective of revulsion to one of reverence and artistic appreciation. Aldington's experience as a soldier in World War I deeply informs this piece, as does his commitment to the Imagist movement's principles of clear, sharp imagery and emotional directness.

Revision of Perception:

The poem begins with the speaker admitting a change in their understanding: "I was wrong, quite wrong; / The dead men are not always carrion." This acknowledgment indicates a shift from the earlier view of the dead as undignified and disturbing, to a recognition of their inherent dignity and solemnity.

Vivid Imagery of the Battlefield:

Aldington uses vivid imagery to depict the aftermath of an advance through "shattered trenches." The description of the setting as "shattered" immediately conveys the violence and destruction inherent in trench warfare.

Portrayal of the Fallen Soldier:

The centerpiece of the poem is the portrayal of a dead English soldier found "lying upon the fire-step." The soldier's "head bloodily bandaged" and his "closed left hand touching the earth" are described with a mixture of realism and solemnity. This depiction contrasts with the more disturbing imagery of the dead in "Soliloquy 1," suggesting a newfound respect and empathy for the fallen.

Artistic Comparisons:

Aldington draws comparisons to the works of renowned artists to convey the profound impact of the scene. The dead soldier is described as "More beautiful than one can tell, / More subtly coloured than a perfect Goya," likening the scene to the masterful paintings of Francisco Goya. Additionally, the comparison to Michelangelo's sculptures ("more austere and lovely in repose / Than Angelo's hand could ever carve in stone") elevates the image of the dead soldier to a work of art, highlighting the dignity and grace found in his repose.

Theme of Beauty and Tragedy:

The poem juxtaposes the tragedy of war with the unexpected beauty found in death. The soldier's peaceful, almost artistic portrayal amidst the chaos and destruction of war brings a poignant beauty to the scene, highlighting the complexities and contradictions of wartime experiences.

In summary, "Soliloquy 2" by Richard Aldington offers a contemplative and reverent perspective on the nature of death in war, contrasting sharply with the more visceral reaction in "Soliloquy 1." Through vivid imagery and artistic comparisons, Aldington captures the dignity and solemn beauty found in the fallen soldier, reflecting a deeper understanding and empathy towards the realities of war. The poem exemplifies the Imagist focus on clear, powerful imagery and emotional depth, exploring the nuanced human responses to the tragedies of conflict.

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