The Dawn of War No CD: A Poem of Patriotism and Mourning

While the fourth stanza of 'The Dawn of War' by Wilfred Owen may be more well-known, the third stanza often goes unnoticed. However, it is a crucial part of the poem that refers to soldiers marching to fight in the Battle of the Marne. The monosyllabic words used in the second stanza evoke the solemn and funereal drums that accompany the battle.

The poem espouses themes of martial glorification, describing war as 'solemn' with its own music and glory. It compares death to celestial music, a stark contrast to the reality of war. Binyon personifies the United Kingdom as a mother, while British soldiers are her children. The poem remembers the deaths of soldiers while justifying their cause, saying it is for the sake of freedom.

The first stanza sets the tone for patriotism, with lines that evoke a sense of longing and hope. The stars shine brightly in the dark, guiding those who have gone before us to their final rest. The second stanza describes the soldiers as steadfast and true, unbroken by the trials they faced.

The final two stanzas bring home the reality of war, describing the soldiers' ultimate sacrifice. They shall not grow old like those left behind, but instead remain forever young in memory. There is music in the midst of desolation, a glory that shines upon our tears.

In conclusion, 'The Dawn of War' No CD is a powerful poem that explores the themes of patriotism and mourning. It honors the sacrifices made by soldiers while acknowledging the devastating reality of war.

Dawn of war no cd