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Bayonet charge
● Context: this poem was written by Ted Hughes, whose father served in and
survived World War One
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● “Bullets smacking the belly out of the air… a rifle numb as a smashed
arm” - the word “smacking” here portrays the violence of the situation and
how bullets appeared to be attacking the air
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The “rifle” simile suggests that it is useless,
but could also mirror how the soldiers may have felt numb and slightly
helpless in this war, as they were expected to suppress their emotions
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● “In what cold clockwork of the stars and the nations…” - this phrase
shows how the soldier in contemplating and reflecting on his role in the army,
and could also suggest that Hughes is commenting on the appalling treatment
of soldiers during the First World War
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The soldier may also feel out of control, as if he is
under the command of other people (perhaps those he doesn’t trust?)
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● “King, honour, human dignity, etcetera/Dropped like luxuries…” - The
word “King” here could be a direct reference to Hughes’s own disdain at men
being sent to their deaths at the order of the monarchy
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This makes war
seem horrific and all-consuming for the people involved
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Themes, form and structure
● The theme of confusion is prevalent throughout the poem, as not only is the
soldier confused by the constant sound of gunfire, but he’s also questioning
why he is there at all
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● The poem starts in media res which means “in the middle of the action”
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● This poem also challenges patriotism and shows the reality and effects of
war

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