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Life Quote by Siegfried Sassoon

“Suicide in the trenches: I knew a simple soldier boy Who grinned at life in empty joy, Slept soundly through the lonesome dark, And whistled early with the lark. In winter trenches, cowed and glum With crumps and lice and lack of rum, He put a bullet through his brain. No one spoke of him again. *…” quote by Siegfried Sassoon
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““Suicide in the trenches: I knew a simple soldier boy Who grinned at life in empty joy, Slept soundly through the lonesome dark, And whistled early with the lark. In winter trenches, cowed and glum With crumps and lice and lack of rum, He put a bullet through his brain. No one spoke of him again. * * * * * You smug-faced crowds with kindling eye Who cheer when soldier lads march by, Sneak home and pray you'll never know The hell where youth and laughter go.””

Siegfried Sassoon

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About This Quote

The poem condemns the glorification of war, portraying a soldier's suicide as a silent tragedy ignored by a complacent public.

In simple terms: War’s horrors are hidden behind patriotic cheers.

Key Takeaway

Societal denial silences suffering.

Themes

war suicide societal indifference trauma memory

Mood

somber angry

Type

poetic lament

When to use this quote

  • veteran reintegration
  • public memorials
  • war journalism

Key Concepts

psychological impact collective responsibility

Practical Applications

  • provide mental‑health support for troops

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does collective memory shape war narratives?
  • What responsibilities do civilians have toward soldiers?
A Different Perspective

The poem’s stark imagery may alienate readers unfamiliar with trench realities.

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