"Dulcet et Decorum Est," is probably the most famous anti-war poem by Wilfred Owen.

Authors Avatar
“Dulcet et Decorum Est,” is probably the most famous anti-war poem by Wilfred Owen. It has a harsh meaning and persuasive argument. The anti-war theme and serious tone are effective at portraying war as horrid and devastating. I felt overpowered by blood, guts and death. Although my reaction hasn’t changed much through numerous readings, my emotional feelings become more intense with each reading. This poem makes me feel as if I am right there watching the soldier who cannot fasten his mask fast enough and suffers the full effects of deadly gas. ‘but someone still is yelling out and stumbling’. This poem also makes me look beyond the death and question the pain inflicted on
Join now!
the mothers who kissed their sons goodbye as they went to defend their country. I imagine the mother receiving word her son has died and being told how noble and patriotic his death was. In his last moments, the soldier and his family become victims of “The old lie”. I can clearly understand what the author is saying. Words like “guttering”, “choking”, and “drowning” jumped out at me and made my body shake. Other words like “writhing” and “froth-corrupted” made me understand just how tragic war is. Not only do these words show how this man is suffering, but also ...

This is a preview of the whole essay