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Class 12 Alternative English Chapter 8 Strange Meeting
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Strange Meeting
Chapter: 3
POETRY ( Section Two )
TEXTUAL QUESTION & ANSWERS
A. Answer these questions in one or two words.
1. Who is the speaker in ‘Strange Meeting’?
Ans: A dead soldier.
2. When did the speaker realise that he was in hell?
Ans: The p t realized that the ‘sullen hall’ he was standing in was nothing other than Hell.
3. What does the poet mean by ‘chariot wheels’?
Ans: The chariot wheels refer to the wheels of progress of various nations of the world which marched forward previously on ideals of liberty, equality and fraternity.
4. What does the speaker discover in the underworld?
Ans: The speaker was the one who killed him.
B. Answer these questions in a few words each.
1. What do you mean by war poetry?
Ans: The term war poet has been applied to a group of poets who lived around the time of the First World War and took it up as a subject. While some like Rupert Brooke were to glorify war sacrifice of one’s life for one’s motherland, the other class, consisting of such poets like Siegfried Sassoon and Wilfred Owen left an indelible mark in the annals of literature. Grossly stark in their presentation of reality Owen and Sassoon presented war not as glory but a pitiful human spectacle where young men are butchered mercilessly.
2. What are the poetic devices often used by Wilfred Owen in his poems?
Ans: “Strange Meeting” consists of 44 lines of lambic Pentameter, divided into three irregular stanzas (like paragraphs). Pararhyme, half- rhyme, alliteration, and onomatopoeia, as well as simile and metaphor.
3. Why is the meeting between the two soldiers called a ‘strange meeting’?
Ans: The meeting is “strange” because the person the poet meets is his enemy (“I am the enemy you killed, my friend…”).
4. What does the poet mean by ‘titanic wars’?
Ans: Composed at a time when the First World War was in progress, by using the phrase ‘titanic wars, Owen most probably refer that mother of all wars that cauterized the psyche of entire humanity. And symbolically, Owen is most probably comparing the First World War with the mythological war fought by the Titans against the gods on Mt. Olympus.
5. ‘Let us sleep now’. What does sleep signify in the poem?
Ans: Here the word sleep signifies a release from the torment and suffering of war, as well as a temporary escape from the haunting memories and consequences of violence. Sleep serves as a symbol of respite, peace and a momentary suspension of the harsh realities of the battlefield.
C. Answer these questions briefly in your own words.
1. What is the significance of the title ‘Strange Meeting’?
Ans: The title “Strange Meeting” in Wilfred Owen’s poem holds multiple layers of significance. It encapsulates the core theme and the unique encounter depicted in the poem, offering insight into the haunting realities of war and the profound human connection that can arise in the midst of violence.
Firstly, the word “strange” suggests an unfamiliar or unexpected meeting. something out of the ordinary. This signifies that the encounter between the two soldiers is not just a typical interaction between comrades or enemies on the battlefield. Instead, it represents a meeting beyond the physical realm, possibly in the afterlife or a dreamscape. The strangeness of the meeting emphasizes the surreal nature of war and the unexpected connections that can arise amidst its horrors.
Furthermore, the title hints at the paradoxical nature of the encounter. In war, soldiers are often pitted against each other as enemies, with the purpose of killing or defeating one another. However, the meeting described in the poem transcends these divisions. The soldiers recognize each other as fellow human beings, regardless of their previous roles as adversaries, This unexpected connection challenges the conventional notions of war and highlights the shared humanity that persists amidst conflict.
The title also alludes to the emotional impact of the encounter. The meeting is not just strange in terms of its circumstances but also in the way it affects the speaker. It leaves a lasting impression, haunting the speaker with memories and reflections on the nature of war, death, and the consequences of violence. The encounter forces the speaker to confront the futility and tragic outcomes of war, ultimately leading to a profound sense of empathy and understanding.
Overall, the title “Strange Meeting” captures the essence of the poem, signifying the unconventional and unexpected meeting between two soldiers beyond the realm of war. It encapsulates the themes of the surreal nature of conflict, the shared humanity of soldiers, and the lasting emotional impact of war. The title sets the stage for a powerful exploration of the complexities and contradictions inherent in the experience of war and the human connections that can arise in its midst
2. Write a brief note on Wilfred Owen’s representation of the underworld to explore the horrors of war in ‘Strange Meeting’.
Ans: In Wilfred Owen’s poem “Strange Meeting,” the representation of the underworld serves as a powerful metaphor for the horrors of war. Owen, a renowned World War I poet, vividly depicts the aftermath of battle and the psychological impact it has on the soldiers.
The poem’s narrator descends into the underworld, which can be interpreted as a symbolic journey into the depths of the human psyche or a literal depiction of death. Here, the soldiers who have perished in war gather, their voices echoing with pain, despair, and regret. Owen presents a haunting vision of the consequences of war, exploring themes of loss. futility, and the destruction of humanity.
The soldiers in the underworld are depicted as victims, trapped in a cycle of violence and suffering. They confront each other with recognition and remorse, realizing that they were once enemies but now share a common fate. This encounter reveals the futility and senselessness of war, as the boundaries and divisions that led to conflict are dissolved in death.
Owen’s use of vivid imagery and powerful language conveys the profound emotional impact of war. The cries and tormented voices of the soldiers emphasize the mental anguish and psychological scars borne by those who have experienced the horrors of battle. Through his representation of the underworld, Owen highlights the tragic waste of human life and the devastating consequences of war on the human soul.
Ultimately, “Strange Meeting” serves as a poignant critique of war, challenging the glorification and romanticization often associated with conflict. Owen exposes the true nature of war, revealing its devastating impact on individuals and society as a whole. The representation of the underworld in the poem acts as a harrowing reminder of the horrors endured by soldiers and calls for an end to the cycle of violence and destruction.
3. ‘I parried; but my hands were loath and cold. Let us sleep now…’
What is the significance of the last two lines in ‘Strange Meeting’?
Ans: The last two lines of Wilfred Owen’s poem “Strange Meeting,” which read, “I parried; but my hands were loath and cold. /Let us sleep now…” hold significant meaning within the context of the poem. These lines convey the exhaustion, weariness, and resignation of the narrator, who has engaged in a conversation with a fellow soldier in the underworld. The word “parried” suggests a defensive action, as if the narrator attempted to defend himself or ward off an attack. However, the subsequent description of the hands being “loath and cold” indicates a lack of strength, vitality, and willpower. The narrator is physically and emotionally drained from the experience of war.
The phrase “Let us sleep now…” can be interpreted in a few ways. On one level, it may signify the desire for respite and escape from the horrors and burdens of war. The sleep mentioned here could represent a metaphorical death or an escape into oblivion, a release from the traumas of the battlefield. It reflects a longing for peace and the cessation of suffering.
Another interpretation is that the phrase expresses a yearning for eternal rest. The soldiers in the poem are already in the underworld, suggesting that they have lost their lives in battle. The desire to sleep could signify a longing for the final rest of death, a release from the ongoing torment and horrors they experienced during their lives.
Furthermore, the closing lines also convey a sense of resignation and acceptance. The narrator acknowledges the futility of fighting and defending oneself in the face of such overwhelming suffering and destruction. The weariness and coldness in the hands imply a loss of agency and a recognition that resistance is futile.
Overall, the last two lines of “Strange Meeting” capture the physical and emotional exhaustion of the narrator and encapsulate the poem’s themes of weariness, resignation, and a longing for escape from the horrors of war. They serve as a poignant conclusion that reflects the devastating toll of conflict on the human spirit and emphasizes the need for peace and rest.
4. How does ‘Strange Meeting’ challenge the traditional view of war as noble and heroic?
Ans: “Strange Meeting” by Wilfred Owen indeed challenges the traditional view of war as noble and heroic, offering a stark and disillusioned perspective on the realities of warfare. The poem serves as a critique of the romanticized notions of war, exposing its devastating consequences and questioning the ideals that are used to justify it.
One way in which the poem challenges the traditional view of war is through its vivid portrayal of the physical and psychological horrors of battle. Owen’s descriptions of the landscape as “wild,” “sullen,” and “ghastly” paint a grim picture of the war-torn environment. These stark images stand in stark contrast to the idealized depictions of heroism and glory often associated with war.
Moreover, the encounter between the speaker and the fellow soldier further undermines the notion of war as noble and heroic. The soldier reveals himself as an enemy whom the speaker had killed, breaking down the divisions and enmity between them. This recognition exposes the arbitrary nature of the conflict and challenges the glorification of war by revealing the shared humanity that transcends the roles of enemies.
The poem also questions the purpose and value of war. The speaker reflects on the shattered dreams, wasted lives, and the futility of the violence. The encounter with the soldier prompts the speaker to question the purpose of their actions and the true cost of the conflict. The portrayal of war as a cycle of violence and destruction underscores its inherent senselessness and challenges the notion of it being a noble pursuit.
Furthermore, the overall tone of the poem is one of despair and disillusionment. The speaker’s reflections on the hollowness of patriotic rhetoric and the haunting experiences of war contribute to the dismantling of the traditional view of war as noble and heroic. Owen presents war as a dehumanizing force that strips individuals of their humanity and reduces them to instruments of violence, emphasizing the ultimate emptiness and tragedy of conflict.
In conclusion, “Strange Meeting” challenges the traditional view of war as noble and heroic by presenting a stark and disillusioned perspective on the realities of warfare. The poem exposes the physical and psychological horrors of battle, questions the purpose and value of war, and emphasizes the shared humanity that is often obscured by the divisions of conflict. Through its critique of the romanticized notions of war, the poem offers a powerful and haunting portrayal of the devastating consequences of violence.
D. Answer these questions in detail.
1. Bring out the central idea of Strange Meeting’.
Ans: The central idea of “Strange Meeting” by Wilfred Owen revolves around the devastating consequences of war and the shared humanity that exists beneath the surface of conflict. The poem explores the profound impact of war on the human spirit, highlighting the tragic futility of violence and the potential for empathy and understanding amidst the horrors of battle.
One central idea in the poem is the dehumanizing nature of war. Owen portrays war as a destructive force that strips individuals of their humanity and reduces them to mere instruments of violence. The soldiers are trapped in a perpetual cycle of killing and being killed, devoid of individuality and purpose. Through vivid imagery and haunting descriptions, Owen depies the physical and psychological toll war takes on those who participate in it, emphasizing the senseless loss of life and the profound waste of human potential.
Another central idea in the poem is the power of connection and empathy Despite the dehumanizing effects of war, the encounter between the speaker and the fellow soldier in the afterlife or dreamlike setting reveal a shared humanity that transcends the divisions of war. The soldier recognize each other’s suffering, find understanding in their shared experiences, and engage in a dialogue that allows them to confront the brutal realities of war. This connection leads to a profound sense of empathy, challenging the dehumanization of the enemy and prompting the speaker to reflect on the senselessness of the conflict.
Additionally, the central idea of “Strange Meeting” centers around the futile nature of war and the disillusionment it brings. The encounter between the soldiers exposes the hollowness of the patriotic rhetoric and glorification of war. The speaker reflects on the wasted lives, shattered dreams, and the profound loss that war inflicts upon humanity. The poem serves as a critique of the romanticized notions of warfare, revealing the stark contrast between the reality of war and the ideals that are used to justify it. Overall, the central idea of “Strange Meeting” encompasses the devastating consequences of war, the dehumanizing nature of violence, and the potential for empathy and understanding amidst the senselessness of conflict. Owen challenges the glorification of war and invites readers to confront the tragic realities of battle, urging them to question the true cost of human lives sacrificed on the altar of war.
2. … Whatever hope is yours,
Was my life also; i went hunting wild
After the wildest beauty in the world…’
How does the poet portray the hopelessness of war i ‘Strange Meeting’? Illustrate your answer in the context of the above lines.
Ans: Wilfred Owen portrays the hopelessness of war in “Strange Meeting” through various poetic techniques, vivid imagery, and the emotional experiences of the speaker and the fellow soldier. The poem reveals the sense of futility and despair that arises from the cycle of violence and the ultimate emptiness of war.
One way Owen conveys the hopelessness of war is through the use of stark and haunting imagery. He describes the landscape as “sullen” and “wild,” depicting it as a desolate and gloomy setting. The imagery of “ghastly suit of grey” and “gashed with knives” creates a vivid portrayal of the physical devastation caused by war. These descriptions evoke a sense of despair and hopelessness, emphasizing the destructive nature of conflict.
Furthermore, Owen uses powerful metaphors and vivid language to convey the psychological impact of war. The soldiers are depicted as “purgatorial shadows” and “men who have escaped from bells,” suggesting that they exist in a state of perpetual suffering and torment. These metaphors underscore the feeling of hopelessness and the absence of any meaningful purpose in the soldiers’ lives.
The dialogue between the speaker and the fellow soldier also highlights the hopelessness of war. The soldier acknowledges the futility of their actions, stating, “I am the enemy you killed, my friend.” This line reveals the senselessness of the conflict, as the soldiers are pitted against each other despite their shared humanity. The encounter with the fellow soldier brings to light the tragic consequences of war and the realization that there are no winners, only victims.
Moreover, the overall tone of the poem conveys a deep sense of despair and resignation. The speaker’s reflections on the shattered dreams and wasted lives of those involved in war contribute to the portrayal of hopelessness. The poem offers no redemption or resolution, highlighting the cyclical nature of violence and the perpetual cycle of destruction.
In summary, Wilfred Owen effectively portrays the hopelessness of war in “Strange Meeting” through stark imagery, powerful metaphors, and the emotional experiences of the characters. The poem presents a bleak and despairing outlook on the futile nature of conflict, emphasizing the devastating consequences of war on individuals and society as a whole
A. Very Short Answer Type Question:
1. Who is the author of the poem “Strange Meeting”?
Ans: The author of the poem “Strange Meeting” is Wilfred Owen.
2. What is the central theme of the poem?
Ans: The central theme of the poem is the futility and horror of war.
3. Who does the narrator encounter in the strange meeting?
Ans: The narrator encounters a fellow soldier, who is revealed to be at enemy combatant.
4. What is the significance of the title “Strange Meeting”?
Ans: The title suggests that the encounter between the narrator and the enemy soldier is unexpected and surreal.
5. How does the poem explore the emotional toll of war?
Ans: The poem delves into the emotional turmoil experienced by soldiers depicting the despair, guilt, and longing for peace.
6. What imagery is used to convey the horrors of war in the poem?
Ans: The poem utilizes vivid and haunting imagery to depict the destructive nature of war, such as “blood-shod,” “piteous recognition,” and “shrieking iron.”
7. What is the message conveyed in the poem’s closing lines?
Ans: The closing lines suggest that war erases differences between enemies, revealing the shared humanity and the tragic consequences of conflict.
8. What is the overall tone of the poem “Strange Meeting”?
Ans: The overall tone of the poem is somber, reflecting the dark realities of war and the profound sadness it brings.
9. When and where was the poem published?
Ans: The poem ‘Strange Meeting’ was published by Owen in the year 1921 in the poetry collection titled ‘Poems By Wilfred Owen with an Introduction by Siegfried Sassoon’.
10. When was the poem composed?
Ans: The poem along with a couple of his other poems was composed by Owen in a war hospital while recovering from an injury, at the insistence of Sassoon in the year 1918.
B. Short Answer Type Question:
1. What do you mean by a war poet?
Ans: The term war poet has been applied to a group of poets who lived around the time of the First World War and took it up as a subject. While some like Rupert Brooke were to glorify war sacrifice of one’s life for one’s motherland, the other class, consisting of such poets like Siegfried Sassoon and Wilfred Owen left an indelible mark in the annals of literature. Grossly stark in their presentation of reality Owen and Sassoon presented war not as glory but a pitiful human spectacle where young men are butchered mercilessly.
2. What is Owen’s opinion about war?
Ans: According to Wilfred Owen, war is not a glorious spectacle and he rubbishes the old lie’ spread by war mongers: “Dulce et decorum est/pro patria mori”. He feels that it is never sweet to die, even for one’s motherland at war and war is nothing but a horrible butcher house of budding young men.
3. What is the ‘profound dull tunnel’ mentioned by the poet?
Ans: The poem begins with the poet expressing his present state where he feels that he is a deep underground tunnel, using which he has escaped from the battlefield. It is a dark, deep, gloomy chamber where he meets men who are either asleep or dead and can be considered to be Hell.
4. What are the ‘titanic wars’ referred to by Owen?
Ans: Composed at a time when the first World War was in progress, by using the phrase ‘titanic wars, Owen most probably refers that mother of all wars that cauterized the psyche of entire humanity. And symbolically, Owen is most probably comparing the first World War with the mythological war fought by the Titans against the gods on Mt. Olympus.
5. How did the poet realize that he was in Hell?
Ans: As the poet was passing through the underground chamber, all of a sudden a man sprang up and stared at him with ‘piteous recognition”. He raised his hands to indicate something, though to the poet it seemed as if to bless, and then from his smile, the poet realized that the ‘sullen hall’ he was standing in was nothing other than Hell.
C. Long Answer Type Question:
1. Why Owen does uses two soldiers to expose the reality of war in “Strange Meeting”?
Ans: Wilfred Owen uses two soldiers in “Strange Meeting” to expose the reality of war from different perspectives and emphasize the shared humanity of soldiers on opposing sides.
By introducing a narrator and an enemy soldier, Owen creates a contrast that allows for a deeper exploration of the effects of war. The encounter between the two soldiers in the afterlife removes the barriers and hostilities that existed in the battlefield, enabling a profound conversation and understanding between them. This interaction serves to humanize both characters and shed light on the common experiences, emotions, and suffering they have endured.
Through the dialogue between the narrator and the enemy soldier, Owen unveils the horrors and senselessness of war. The enemy soldier’s revelation that they are both victims of the same “lie” and the guilt he expresses conveys the shared burden of war. This confrontation exposes the illusion of enmity and challenges the dehumanization of the enemy. Owen uses this encounter to highlight the tragic waste and futility of conflicts that pit ordinary individuals against each other.
Furthermore, the use of two soldiers allows Owen to showcase the psychological and emotional toll war exacts on individuals. The soldiers share their experiences, fears, and regrets, revealing the haunting and lifelong impact of their involvement in war. By juxtaposing their stories, Owen emphasizes the universality of these experiences, regardless of which side of the conflict they were on.
In summary, by employing two soldiers in “Strange Meeting,” Owen effectively exposes the reality of war by breaking down the barriers between enemies and showcasing their shared humanity. Through their encounter, he reveals the devastating consequences of war, challenges the dehumanization of the enemy, and underscores the need for empathy and understanding amidst the destructive forces of conflict.
2. What techniques does Wilfred Owen use to create a sense of the effects of war in his poem “Strange Meeting”?
Ans: Wilfred Owen utilizes several poetic techniques in “Strange Meeting” to create a vivid sense of the effects of war:
(a) Vivid Imagery: Owen employs powerful and evocative imagery throughout the poem to depict the horrors of war. Examples include “blood- shod,” “hell’s half-acre,” and “the pity of war.” These images engage the reader’s senses and convey the physical and emotional toll of warfare.
(b) Alliteration: Owen uses alliteration, the repetition of consonant sounds, to create a musical quality and intensify certain words and phrases. For instance, in the line “And by his smile, I knew that sullen hall,” the repetition of the “s” sound emphasizes the somber and sinister atmosphere.
(c) Metaphor and Simile: Owen incorporates metaphorical and simile- based language to express the effects of war. One example is the phrase “each slow dusk a drawing-down of blinds,” which metaphorically represents the loss and mourning associated with death in war. Another example is the simile “as under a green sea, I saw him drowning,” which vividly portrays the suffocating and overwhelming nature of the battlefield.
(d) Repetition: Owen employs repetition to emphasize certain ideas and emotions. The repeated phrase “I am the enemy you killed, my friend” reinforces the sense of shared humanity and remorse, driving home the point that war causes immense suffering on all sides.
(e) Irony: Owen uses irony to critique the glorification and romanticization of war. The poem’s title, “Strange Meeting,” is ironic, as it juxtaposes the expected hostility between enemies with the surprising connection and empathy that arises in death. This irony underscores the senselessness and tragedy of war.
(f) Shifts in Tone and Diction: Owen adeptly shifts the tone and diction throughout the poem to convey different emotions and perspectives. The poem begins with a sombre and melancholic tone, gradually transitioning to a more introspective and introspective voice as the narrator engages in a profound conversation with the enemy soldier.
Collectively, these techniques employed by Wilfred Owen in “Strange Meeting” immerse the reader in the devastating effects of war. Through vivid imagery, rhetorical devices, and shifts in tone, Owen portrays the physical, emotional, and psychological impact of warfare, urging readers to confront the harsh realities and question the glorification of conflict.
3. In “Strange Meeting” by Wilfred Owen, how does the encounter between the narrator and the enemy soldier in the afterlife convey the devastating impact of war and challenge conventional notions of heroism and enmity?
Ans: In “Strange Meeting” by Wilfred Owen, the encounter between the narrator and the enemy soldier in the afterlife serves as a powerful means of conveying the devastating impact of war and challenging conventional notions of heroism and enmity. Through their profound dialogue, Owen explores the shared humanity, the futile nature of conflict, and the tragedy of lives wasted.
The meeting between the narrator and the enemy soldier takes place in an otherworldly realm, symbolizing the aftermath of war and the realm beyond earthly conflicts. By locating the encounter in this ethereal setting, Owen underscores the surreal and tragic nature of war, highlighting its destructive consequences that transcend borders and allegiances.
As the conversation unfolds, the initial hostility and animosity between the two soldiers dissolve, giving way to a deep connection and empathy. The enemy soldier, revealed to be a reflection of the narrator’s own self, speaks of the shared guilt and remorse felt by both combatants. This revelation challenges the notion of heroism and disrupts the simplistic narrative of “us versus them.” The encounter reveals the universal human experiences of suffering, loss, and the profound psychological impact of war.
Owen uses the encounter to expose the futility of war and the senselessness of the violence it perpetuates. The enemy soldier’s description of the “pity of war” and the realization that they both fought for an “old lie” unearths the deceptive nature of patriotic fervor and calls into question the reasons behind the conflict. The soldiers’ dialogue reveals the tragic waste of human lives, highlighting the deep scars that war inflicts upon individuals and societies.
Moreover, the encounter challenges traditional notions of enmity and portrays the enemy soldier as fellow victim rather than a faceless adversary. Owen humanizes the enemy, emphasizing the shared vulnerability and suffering experienced by soldiers on both sides. This subversion of the enemy archetype underscores the dehumanizing nature of war and exposes the fallacy of viewing one’s fellow humans as mere enemies to be conquered.
Through this encounter, Owen offers a profound critique of war and its consequences. He questions the glorification of heroism and challenges the notions of loyalty and enmity that often underpin conflicts. By highlighting the shared humanity and the tragic waste of lives, Owen urges readers to confront the realities of war and to seek empathy and understanding instead of perpetuating cycles of violence.
In conclusion, the encounter between the narrator and the enemy soldier in “Strange Meeting” serves as a poignant exploration of the devastating impact of war. Through their dialogue, Wilfred Owen exposes the futility of conflict, challenges conventional notions of heroism and enmity, and emphasizes the shared humanity and suffering that transcend divisions. The poem stands as a powerful anti-war statement, urging readers in reflect on the true costs of war and the urgent need for peace and compassion in a world torn apart by violence.
4. How does Wilfred Owen employ poetic techniques in “Strange Meeting” to convey the psychological and emotional impact of war on the individual soldiers, and what broader message does he convey about the human condition and the nature of conflict?
Ans: In “Strange Meeting” by Wilfred Owen, the poet skilfully employs a range of poetic techniques to convey the psychological and emotional impact of war on individual soldiers, while also conveying a broader message about the human condition and the nature of conflict.
Owen utilizes vivid imagery to evoke the physical and psychological landscapes shaped by war. The poem opens with a haunting image of soldiers who are “blood-shod,” their feet caked in blood, reflecting the toll of warfare on their bodies. This image establishes the physical pain and suffering experienced by soldiers. Additionally, Owen employs descriptive language throughout the poem, such as “the monstrous anger of the guns” and “the pity of war,” to emphasize the emotional weight of their experiences and the anguish they carry.
The poet also uses sound devices to heighten the impact of his words. Alliteration is employed to create a musical quality and emphasize certain phrases, such as “Ghost-glimpsed,” “smiles as if,” and “sullen hall.” The repetition of certain consonant sounds enhances the atmosphere and intensifies the emotions conveyed in the poem.
Metaphorical language is employed to evoke the mental and emotional state of the soldiers. Owen describes their experiences as being trapped “under a green sea,” representing the suffocating and overwhelming nature of the battlefield. He also uses the metaphor of “the doors are all closed” to convey the sense of isolation and despair felt by the soldiers, emphasizing the emotional barriers they face in the midst of war.
The poet’s use of shifts in tone and diction further enhances the portrayal of the psychological impact of war. The poem begins with a somber and melancholic tone, reflecting the solemnity of the subject matter. As the narrative progresses, the tone shifts to one of introspection and intruspection, as the encounter between the narrator and the enemy soldier leads to a profound conversation and a shared sense of remorse and disillusionment.
Through these poetic techniques, Owen conveys the psychological and emotional turmoil experienced by soldiers in war. He explores the internal struggles, the trauma, and the loss of innocence that shape their lives. By humanizing the soldiers and delving into their inner worlds, he highlights the profound impact of war on individual psyches and challenges romanticized notions of heroism.
In a broader sense, “Strange Meeting” offers a powerful commentary on the human condition and the nature of conflict. Owen suggests that war is a futile and tragic endeavour, leading to the destruction of lives and the erosion of humanity. The encounter between the narrator and the enemy soldier reveals the shared vulnerability and suffering that transcends national boundaries. Through their conversation, Owen underscores the universal desire for peace, understanding, and connection amidst the chaos of war.
In conclusion, Wilfred Owen employs a range of poetic techniques in “Strange Meeting” to convey the psychological and emotional impact of war on individual soldiers. Through vivid imagery, sound devices, metaphorical language, and shifts in tone, he paints a vivid picture of the human toll of conflict. The poem ultimately conveys a broader message about the human condition and the destructive nature of war, urging readers to question the motivations and consequences of violence and to strive for peace and empathy in the face of adversity.
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