Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

In "Casualty," from "Montage of a Dream Deferred," Langston Hughes presents a brief yet powerful portrayal of a former soldier whose experiences have left him profoundly changed. The poem touches on themes of disillusionment, the lasting impact of military service, and the harsh realities faced by those who return from war only to find that their sacrifices have not translated into a better life.

The poem opens with the line, "He was a soldier in the army," immediately situating the subject within the context of military service. This introduction establishes the man's past identity as a soldier, someone who once served his country, likely with pride and a sense of duty. However, the past tense "was" suggests that this identity is now part of his history, not his present.

Hughes then contrasts this former identity with the present reality: "But he doesn't walk like one: / He walks like his soldiering / Days are done." These lines convey a stark transformation. The man no longer carries himself with the discipline, purpose, or pride typically associated with being a soldier. Instead, his walk reflects a sense of finality and weariness—his "soldiering days are done." This phrase implies that whatever strength, determination, or hope he once had has been exhausted, leaving him diminished and perhaps disillusioned.

The repetition of "He walks" emphasizes the visible change in his demeanor, as if the very way he moves through the world has been altered by his experiences. This change could symbolize the physical and psychological toll that military service—and possibly war—has taken on him. The reader is left to infer that the soldier has returned to a civilian life that does not honor or reflect the sacrifices he made, leaving him disconnected from the identity he once held.

The poem concludes with a poignant and empathetic call: "Son' , . , Son!" The repetition of "Son" suggests a voice of concern or regret, possibly from an elder or someone who sees the soldier's pain and wishes to comfort him. The incomplete phrase and trailing punctuation convey a sense of something left unsaid, as if the speaker is at a loss for words or overwhelmed by the situation. This ending leaves the reader with a feeling of unresolved sorrow, highlighting the emotional and societal casualties of war that go beyond the battlefield.

"Casualty" is a powerful commentary on the aftereffects of war and the way society often fails to recognize or support those who have served. Hughes captures the sense of loss, not just of life, but of identity and purpose, that many veterans experience upon returning to a world that no longer feels like their own. The poem is a testament to the enduring impact of military service on individuals and a critique of the way society neglects the emotional and psychological wounds carried by those who have been to war.

Through its simple yet evocative language, "Casualty" resonates with the broader theme of deferred dreams and unfulfilled promises that runs throughout "Montage of a Dream Deferred." It serves as a reminder of the hidden costs of war and the silent suffering of those who return home, changed in ways that are often overlooked or misunderstood.

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