Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"On a Soldier Fallen in the Philippines" is a poem written by William Vaughn Moody in 1902. The poem is a tribute to an American soldier who died in the Philippines during the Philippine-American War, which took place from 1899 to 1902.

The poem begins by describing the soldier's death and the circumstances surrounding it. Moody paints a vivid picture of the soldier's final moments, describing how he fell "with his face to the foe" and how "the flame of his soul went out in a blast". The speaker then reflects on the soldier's sacrifice and the impact it will have on those who knew him.

The poem's central message is one of honor and duty. Moody celebrates the soldier's willingness to give his life for his country and for a cause he believed in, even though he was far from home and fighting in a foreign land. He describes the soldier as a "new-born knight" and a "scion of valor and truth", highlighting his bravery and his commitment to defending his country's values.

Moody also uses the poem to comment on the larger context of the Philippine-American War, which was a controversial conflict that sparked intense debate and opposition at the time. While he does not explicitly take a side in the debate, Moody acknowledges the complexities of the situation and the toll that the war took on both sides. He writes, "He has passed to the greater service of the world", suggesting that the soldier's sacrifice transcends national boundaries and serves a higher purpose.

Form:

The poem's form is a sonnet, which is a 14-line poem with a specific rhyme scheme and meter. Moody uses a traditional Shakespearean rhyme scheme, with an ABAB CDCD EFEF GG pattern, and iambic pentameter, which is a rhythmic pattern of 10 syllables per line. The use of this traditional form lends a sense of gravity and formality to the poem, underscoring its theme of honor and sacrifice.

Poetic Elements:

The poem is also characterized by its use of vivid and evocative imagery. Moody paints a vivid picture of the soldier's death and the circumstances surrounding it, using phrases such as "with his face to the foe" and "the flame of his soul went out in a blast" to create a sense of drama and intensity. He also uses metaphorical language to describe the soldier, referring to him as a "new-born knight" and a "scion of valor and truth", highlighting his bravery and commitment to defending his country's values.

The poem also employs a number of other poetic devices to underscore its themes and emotions. For example, Moody uses repetition to emphasize the soldier's sacrifice and the impact it will have on those who knew him. He repeats the phrase "he lies" throughout the poem, highlighting the soldier's physical presence as well as the emotional impact of his loss. The poem also makes use of alliteration, such as in the phrase "scarred by the storm of shot and shell", to create a sense of rhythm and momentum.

Overall, "On a Soldier Fallen in the Philippines" uses a variety of poetic devices to convey its themes of duty, honor, and sacrifice. The use of formal structure and vivid imagery, combined with Moody's skillful use of metaphorical language and repetition, create a poem that is both emotionally resonant and intellectually engaging.

Summary:

 "On a Soldier Fallen in the Philippines" is a moving and poignant tribute to a fallen soldier that celebrates the virtues of duty, honor, and sacrifice. It is a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and the courage of those who fight for their country's ideals.

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