Patrick Shaw-Stewart

[seaJane]

Killed in action on this day 1917.

 

I Met a Man This Morning (by Patrick Shaw-Stewart)

 

I saw a man this morning
Who did not wish to die;
I ask, and cannot answer,
If otherwise wish I.

Fair broke the day this morning
Upon the Dardanelles:
The breeze blew soft, the morn's cheeks
Were cold as cold sea-shells.

But other shells are waiting
Across the Aegean Sea;
Shrapnel and high explosives,
Shells and hells for me.

Oh Hell of ships and cities,
Hell of men like me,
Fatal second Helen,
Why must I follow thee?

Achilles came to Troyland
And I to Chersonese;
He turned from wrath to battle,
And I from three days' peace.

Was it so hard, Achilles,
So very hard to die?
Thou knowest, and I know not;
So much the happier am I.

I will go back this morning
From Imbros o'er the sea.
Stand in the trench, Achilles,
Flame-capped, and shout for me.

 

 

[Bernard_Lewis]

A wonderful poem. I understand he was a noted Classics scholar, well versed in the Greek myths. There are several references to the Trojan War in the poem, including the fact that Achilles had been assisted in battle by a cap of flame and a very loud shout, actions that confused his enemies.

 

Not forgotten.

 

Bernard

[squirrel]

Excellent poem - R.I.P. Patrick Shaw-Stewart

[Michelle Young]

A brave man, paid my respects a couple of years back