Wilfred Owen

(1893-1918) Young and joyful, man of faith Muse stirred to sing Lilting songs of love and beauty Enjoyed afternoon teas on lush lawns Life sweet, melodious and merry Promise of future in the Church. Came call to arms Country's need for soldiers Endured Hell in the trenches Saw things that broke the mind Ripped soul asunder On sick leave returned to England. Back in the trenches Muse roared against the gore Despaired at madness of war Plight of soldiers dying in the mud Thousands slaughtered Britain's precious flowers destroyed.