The Poetry of World War I

The poetry of World War I reflects the profound impact of the war’s trauma, contrasting idealism with harsh reality. Poets expressed the brutality, chaos, and loss experienced on the battlefield, often conveying disillusionment and questioning traditional notions of heroism and patriotism. Their works serve as powerful testimonials, capturing the emotional devastation and the disconnection between noble ideals and brutal wartime truths. This poetry broadened understanding of war’s human cost, shaping cultural memory and highlighting the complex, often painful, realities faced by soldiers and civilians alike.