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Desert Sodden Quote by Henry Newbolt

“The sand of the desert is sodden red, -- Red with the wreck of a square that broke; -- The Gatling's jammed and the Colonel dead, And the regiment blind with dust and smoke. The river of death has brimmed his banks, And England's far, and Honour a name, But the voice of a schoolboy rallies the…” quote by Henry Newbolt
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““The sand of the desert is sodden red, -- Red with the wreck of a square that broke; -- The Gatling's jammed and the Colonel dead, And the regiment blind with dust and smoke. The river of death has brimmed his banks, And England's far, and Honour a name, But the voice of a schoolboy rallies the ranks: 'Play up! play up! and play the game!””

Henry Newbolt

About This Quote

Source Poem: "The School Boy's Song" by Henry Newbolt, 1910

A battlefield scene where chaos and death contrast with a schoolboy's spirited rallying cry, highlighting youthful optimism amidst war.

In simple terms: War chaos meets youthful optimism.

Key Takeaway

Find hope even in dire circumstances.

Themes

war optimism leadership youth resilience

Mood

defiant hopeful

Type

inspirational poetic

When to use this quote

  • military conflict
  • sports team motivation
  • classroom encouragement

Key Concepts

courage morale spirit

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can optimism survive without denial?
  • How does youthful spirit affect morale?
A Different Perspective

The quote may romanticize war and ignore its horrors.

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