These Fought In Any Case
Ezra Pound's poem 'These Fought In Any Case' reflects on the experiences and disillusionment of soldiers who fought in World War I. The poem begins by acknowledging the various motivations that drove individuals to war, such as adventure, fear, and a misguided love of violence. It then transitions to the harsh realities faced by soldiers, who, after enduring the horrors of war, return home to find themselves surrounded by lies and corruption. The poem critiques the societal structures that perpetuate deceit and exploitation, highlighting the contrast between the bravery and honesty exhibited during wartime and the moral decay found in peacetime. The imagery of 'young blood' and 'fair cheeks' serves to emphasize the tragic loss of youth and potential, while the mention of 'trench confessions' and 'laughter out of dead bellies' underscores the profound psychological impact of war. Overall, the poem is a poignant commentary on the futility and betrayal experienced by those who served, as well as a critique of the societal systems that fail them upon their return.
| Word | In English | Plain (English) | Pron. |
|---|---|---|---|
| pro domo | for one's own cause | acting in one's own interest | pro doh-mo |
| pro patria | for the country | in service of the nation | pro pah-tree-ah |
| usury | lending at high interest | charging excessive interest on loans | yoo-suh-ree |
| infamy | disgrace | shameful reputation | in-fuh-mee |
| fortitude | courage | strength in facing adversity | for-ti-tood |
| frankness | honesty | openness and sincerity | frangk-ness |
| disillusions | loss of belief | realizing the truth about something false | dis-il-loo-zhuhns |
| hysterias | uncontrolled emotions | extreme emotional reactions | his-teer-ee-uhs |
| censure | criticism | strong disapproval | sen-shur |
Ezra Pound was an American poet and critic, a major figure in the early modernist poetry movement. He was known for developing Imagism and was influential in shaping the work of contemporaries like T.S. Eliot and James Joyce. His later years were marked by controversial political views and activities during World War II.
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