Download as docx, pdf, or txt
Download as docx, pdf, or txt
You are on page 1of 2

To analyze how suffering is displayed in two poems from a poetry anthology, we can use the PEE (Point,

Evidence, Explanation) format. Let's compare and contrast how suffering is portrayed in William Blake's
"London" and Wilfred Owen's "Dulce et Decorum Est."

Point:

Both poems depict suffering but approach it from different perspectives.

Evidence:

In William Blake's "London," the suffering is shown through the speaker's observations of the city's grim
realities, such as "marks of weakness, marks of woe" and "the mind-forg'd manacles." These phrases
suggest psychological and emotional suffering caused by societal oppression and constraints.

In Wilfred Owen's "Dulce et Decorum Est," suffering is vividly depicted through the physical horrors of
war. Lines like "Men marched asleep," "Blood-shod," and "In all my dreams, before my helpless sight"
convey the agony, exhaustion, and traumatic experiences of soldiers in combat.

Explanation:

Blake's portrayal of suffering in "London" focuses on the mental anguish and emotional despair brought
about by societal injustices and constraints. The suffering is subtle yet pervasive, affecting the
individual's psyche and perception of the world.

On the other hand, Owen's "Dulce et Decorum Est" paints a stark picture of physical suffering during war,
highlighting the brutal realities faced by soldiers on the front lines. The agony is palpable, evoking a
visceral response from the reader.

Comparison:

Both poems address suffering, but "London" delves into the internal and psychological aspects, while
"Dulce et Decorum Est" emphasizes the external, physical manifestations of suffering.

"London" suggests a more subdued and enduring suffering, rooted in societal structures and norms,
whereas "Dulce et Decorum Est" exposes the immediate and intense suffering experienced in the chaos
of war.

Contrast:

The suffering in "London" is depicted through symbolic language and metaphorical imagery, offering a
nuanced view of psychological pain. In contrast, "Dulce et Decorum Est" employs vivid sensory details
and graphic descriptions to depict the raw physical suffering endured in war.

While "London" conveys a sense of resignation and despair in the face of societal hardships, "Dulce et
Decorum Est" exposes the horror and disillusionment of war, challenging romanticized notions of
heroism and patriotism.

In conclusion, both poems effectively convey suffering but do so through different lenses and with
distinct emphases on either psychological or physical anguish, providing readers with multifaceted
insights into the human experience of pain and adversity.

You might also like