Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

THE CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTOR, by KARL SHAPIRO Poet Analysis Poet's Biography

"The Conscientious Objector" is a poem written by Karl Shapiro, first published in 1942. The poem deals with the theme of pacifism and the ethical and moral implications of war.

Explanation:

The poem starts with the speaker, who is a conscientious objector, describing how he feels like a "cracked record," repeating the same argument over and over again about why he won't fight in the war. He says that he is not a coward, but he just cannot bring himself to kill anyone. He feels that killing is wrong and goes against everything he believes in.

In the second stanza, the speaker describes how he has been called a "traitor" and a "weakling" for his beliefs. He says that people have accused him of not caring about his country, but he argues that his refusal to fight is actually an act of patriotism. He believes that the best way to show his love for his country is to work towards peace and avoid senseless violence.

The third stanza is a plea to those who disagree with the speaker's beliefs. He asks them to consider his position and not judge him harshly for his refusal to fight. He argues that war is a complex issue and that there are many different factors that contribute to it. He urges people to think about the consequences of war and the toll it takes on both soldiers and civilians.

The final stanza is a powerful statement about the speaker's beliefs. He says that he will never be a soldier and that he will always stand up for what he believes in. He believes that war is wrong and that violence is never the answer. He is proud to be a conscientious objector and believes that he is doing the right thing by refusing to fight.

Poetic Elements:

Form: The poem consists of four stanzas of varying length. The first and third stanzas are six lines each, while the second and fourth stanzas are four lines each. The poem is written in free verse.
Imagery: The poem uses a metaphor of a "cracked record" to describe the speaker's feeling of repeating the same argument over and over again. The use of this metaphor creates a sense of frustration and exhaustion.
Repetition: The poem uses repetition to emphasize the speaker's refusal to fight in the war. The phrase "I will not fight" is repeated multiple times throughout the poem, creating a sense of conviction and determination.

Conclusion:

"The Conscientious Objector" is a powerful poem that explores the theme of pacifism and the moral and ethical implications of war. The poem is written in free verse and uses metaphors and repetition to convey the speaker's frustration and determination. The poem is a plea for understanding and acceptance, urging people to consider the consequences of war and the toll it takes on both soldiers and civilians.

Poem Snippet:

I shall die, but

that is all that I shall do for Death.

I hear him leading his horse out of the stall;

I hear the clatter on the barn-floor.