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In the exploration of war and its profound impacts on individuals, Siegfried Sassoon, in his poems 'Does it Matter?' and 'Survivors,' employs a range of literary techniques to amplify the message of non-combatants' misunderstanding of the true nature of war. The depth of these poetic expressions, utilizing rhetorical questions, repetition, and onomatopoeia, serves to vividly portray the ignorance and lack of empathy displayed by those who did not directly experience the horrors of war.
The strategic use of rhetorical questions in 'Does it Matter?' serves to underscore the non-combatants' ignorance regarding the harsh realities of war.
Sassoon's recurring inquiry, "Does it matter?" becomes a poignant reflection of their inability to comprehend the profound impact of war on the soldiers. The intensification of this message arises from the acknowledgment that the consequences of war, such as losing limbs, impaired sight, and haunting nightmares, indeed matter significantly. The non-combatants, however, remain oblivious to the immense sacrifices made by the soldiers for their country.
Furthermore, onomatopoeia is strategically woven into the fabric of 'Does it Matter?' to emphasize the childlike and indifferent behavior of the non-combatants.
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The deliberate choice of the word 'gobble' portrays their ignorance and insensitivity, highlighting a stark contrast with the soldiers who have endured the brutalities of war.
The theme of non-seriousness and childlike behavior of non-combatants is further explored in 'Base Details.' Here, Sassoon employs words like 'toddle' and 'guzzling and gulping' to vividly depict a major acting in a frivolous and immature manner.
This portrayal serves to intensify the message of the misunderstanding of war's realities as it illustrates the non-combatants' selfish and greedy attitude towards the soldiers who fought on the front lines. The disconnect between the non-combatants and the soldiers is palpable, emphasizing the stark contrast in their experiences and perspectives.
Repetition is a key element in 'Survivors,' contributing to the amplification of the message regarding non-combatants' misunderstanding of the war's realities. The phrases 'they'll soon get well,' 'they're longing to go out again,' 'they'll soon forget,' and 'they'll be proud' reveal a detached and impersonal regard the non-combatants have for the soldiers. This repetition creates a misleading sense of hope for the shell-shocked soldiers, suggesting a swift recovery that contradicts the harsh reality of the lasting impact of war.
Additionally, onomatopoeia is skillfully employed in 'Survivors' with phrases like 'Stammering disconnected talk,' highlighting the soldiers' difficulty in expressing their experiences verbally. This further intensifies the message of non-combatants' misunderstanding as it signifies the profound disconnection between the soldiers' firsthand view of war and the non-combatants' distant comprehension.
In conclusion, the poems 'Does it Matter?' and 'Survivors' by Siegfried Sassoon serve as poignant reflections on the misunderstood realities of war by non-combatants. Through the skillful use of rhetorical questions, repetition, and onomatopoeia, Sassoon creates a powerful narrative that illuminates the stark contrast between the experiences of soldiers and those who remained on the sidelines. The amplified message is one of empathy and understanding, urging society to acknowledge the profound impact of war on the individuals who sacrifice so much for their country.
By delving into the intricacies of Sassoon's poetry, readers are prompted to reflect not only on the historical context of war but also on the timeless theme of human empathy. These poems transcend their temporal settings, serving as timeless reminders of the need for compassion and understanding in the face of human suffering. Sassoon's artistic mastery enables the poems to resonate across generations, fostering a deeper appreciation for the intricate web of emotions woven into the fabric of war.
Moreover, the exploration of war's impact on perception extends beyond the specific experiences of Sassoon's characters, inviting readers to consider the broader implications for societal attitudes towards those who have endured the trauma of conflict. The poems act as a call to action, urging individuals to bridge the gap between the lived experiences of soldiers and the perceptions held by those shielded from the front lines.
As readers navigate the verses of 'Does it Matter?' and 'Survivors,' they are confronted with the profound responsibility of acknowledging the sacrifice made by soldiers and, in turn, reassessing societal perceptions. The intentional use of rhetorical questions, repetition, and onomatopoeia serves as a literary catalyst, sparking contemplation on the collective consciousness and the imperative role empathy plays in fostering a more compassionate society.
In the grand tapestry of literary expression, Sassoon's poems stand as enduring testaments to the power of words in shaping perceptions and challenging societal norms. The richness of these verses lies not only in their aesthetic appeal but also in their capacity to evoke introspection and societal transformation. Through this comprehensive analysis, we not only dissect the nuances of Sassoon's poetic craftsmanship but also unveil the timeless relevance of his message in a world perpetually grappling with the consequences of war.
War's Misunderstood Realities: Analysis of Sassoon's Poems. (2016, Apr 07). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/essay-siegfried-sassoon-essay
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