Bayonet Charge

Question 1

Summary:

Answer 1

1. Soldier is unprepared for battle
2. Is clumsy and confused
3. Dying hare and suffering infront of him
4. Realises the danger he is in
5. Reverts back to the battle.

Question 2

Context:

Answer 2

1. Grew up post-WW1 era saw the influence of it
2. Rural upbringing
3. Poems were a way to make sense of the events he never saw but the impacts he saw
4. His father fought in WW1, tribute to his father

Question 3

Comparisons:

Answer 3

1. COTLB -glorification vs reality
2. Remains- timing

Question 4

1. “Suddenly he awoke and was running-raw In raw-seamed hot khaki.”

Answer 4

1. En media red, thrust into the chaos and brutality
2. Transition from an unconscious state to harsh reality, disorientated
3. Physical discomfort and vulnerability
4. Emotional turmoil, harsh nature of war
5. Lack of comfort in uniform, instrument of war

Question 5

2. “The patriotic tear that had brimmed in his eye, swelling like molten iron from the centre of his chest.”

Answer 5

1. Intense emotion
2. Initial patriotism and fervor
3. Verge of overflowing- investment to the cause
4. Simile shows inner turmoil and anguish but the intense heat and pressure.

Question 6

3. “In what cold clockwork of the stars and the nations Was he the hand pointing that second.”

Answer 6

1. Existential crisis, dealing with war
2. Individuals are reduced to cogs in a larger indifferent system
   3.The soldier is merely a pawn in a larger war
3. Insignificant and powerless

Question 7

4. “King, honour, human dignity, etcetera Dropped like luxuries in a yelling alarm.”

Answer 7

1. Chaotic nature of war in which ideals are abandoned, in the face of danger
2. Represents the revered principles and virtues associated with patriotism
3. They are impractical, shows the brutal pragmatism of war
4. Chaos drives the soldiers to their primal urge for self-preservation