Nine months Quote by Sharon Olds
““The End of World War One Out of the scraped surface of the land men began to emerge, like puppies from the slit of their dam. Up from the trenches they came out upon the pitted, raw earth wobbling as if new-born. They could not believe they would be allowed to live, the orders had come down: no more killing. They approached the enemy, holding out chocolate and cigarettes. They shook hands, exchanged souvenirs--mess-kits, neckerchiefs. Some even embraced, while in London total strangers copulated in doorways and on the pavement, in the ecstasy of being reprieved. Nine months later, like men emerging from the trenches, first the head, then the body, there were lifted, newborn, from these mothers, the soldiers of World War Two.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: “The End of World War One”, 1990s collection
After WWI, soldiers emerge like newborns, embracing peace, while society celebrates newfound freedom, foreshadowing WWII’s birth.
In simple terms: War ends, peace follows, but new conflicts arise.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the cycle of war and peace.
Themes
war
peace
rebirth
humanity
history
hope
Mood
hopeful
somber
reflective
Type
historical
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- historical analysis
- peacebuilding
- mental health counseling
- education
- literary critique
Key Concepts
post‑war trauma
reconciliation
societal healing
generational impact
Questions to Reflect On
- What lessons can prevent future wars?
- How do societies heal after massive conflict?
A Different Perspective
Optimism may overlook lingering trauma and unresolved grievances.
