The Survivor
In memory to-night I'm on Flanders' front
Where poppies, blood-red, swayed
To the guns, and the drums, and the marching feet
of a million men — betrayed!
And I'm talking once more with old comrades — pals
Whose bodies have long been dust.
How firm was their faith that war would end!
Great God! — was it just — was it just?
Brief was their span, but their day's dying sun
Left haloes of glory anon;
'Midst unfurling flags, and screeching of shells
Their brave young souls marched on.
And now, though but half-way along life's rough road,
I feel the cruel pressure of years,
For my youth went out with the old brigade
On that futile tide of tears.
And while their blithe spirits are hov'ring to-night
Over old familiar heaths,
Where, entangled and gassed in a hell of mud,
They died a thousand deaths.
I thank God they're beyond the maddening truth
That War makes man its fool,
And will stalk abroad o'er a prostrate world
Till sovereign Love shall rule!
Mrs. Amabel King, 1934
This book is dedicated to the brave Canadian women who sought to share their voices in a time of great conflict and social upheaval, and in doing so cast the experience of war in a different light.
Special thanks to my dearest friends scooby-snacks and LoveVincitOmnia, without whom I would not have been able to complete this opus. Their keen eyes and enthusiastic support have been invaluable.