Silence In The Square - Ben Barnes

The poem 'In Memoriam' by Ewert Macintosh reflects on the grief of a father who lost his only son, David, in war. It contrasts the father's memories of David with the officer's perspective, who led many young men into battle. The officer recalls the trust and bond he shared with his men, highlighting the harsh realities of war and the suffering endured by soldiers. The poem emphasizes the emotional pain and loss experienced by both the families and the officers who witnessed the soldiers' struggles.

What does the imagery of 'new-cut peats rotting' symbolize in the poem?

• The passage of time

• The father's deep sorrow and loss

• The father's neglect of his duties

• The decay of nature

What was the main focus of the letters David wrote to his father?

• His experiences with fellow soldiers

• His longing for home

• The sheep on the hill and farm work

• The battles he fought

How does the officer describe his relationship with his men compared to their fathers?

• He felt a deeper connection, seeing them as his sons

• He saw them as mere soldiers

• He was indifferent to their fate

• He felt more distant than their fathers

What is the officer's emotional response to the calls for help from his men?

• He felt helpless and full of pity

• He ignored their pleas

• He was indifferent to their cries

• He felt empowered to save them

What contrast is drawn between the fathers and the officer in the poem?

• The officer was less affected by the soldiers' deaths

• Fathers saw their sons' pride, while the officer saw their suffering

• The officer was more detached than the fathers

• Fathers were more understanding of the war