The Khaki Boys Who Were Not At The Front

By Ella Wheeler Wilcox

Lyric Poem
    Oh! it is not just the men who face the guns,     Not the fighters at the Front alone, to-day     Who will bring the longed-for close to the bloody fray, for those     Could not carry on that fray without the ones     Who are working at war's problems far away.     You are ALL our splendid heroes in the strife,     And we class you with the warriors maimed and scarred,     Though you never have been near enough the battle din to hear,     While you laboured in the dull routine of life     In your khaki suits with sleeves that are not barred.     You have offered up yourselves to save the world;     You have felt the abnegation of the Christ:     And whatever work you do is a noble work and true;     Though it be not done with banners all unfurled,     You will find it has, in sight of God, sufficed.     While you carry back no medals when you go,     Not without you had the fighters borne war's brunt:     So just lift your heads uncowed, for your country will be proud     And its lasting love and honour will bestow     On the khaki boys who were not at the Front.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
The poem offers a profound and empathetic exploration of the roles of non-combatants during wartime, arguing that their contributions are just as vital and heroic as those on the battlefield. The key theme is the valorization of unseen, behind-the-scenes work, and the poem presents a nuanced understanding of heroism that extends beyond physical bravery.

The poet employs a solemn, reverent tone to champion the quiet sacrifices made by those in "khaki suits with sleeves that are not barred". The use of religious and militant imagery, such as "the abnegation of the Christ" and "banners all unfurled," elevates the importance of these non-combat roles, while the consistent return to the color "khaki" speaks to a shared identity and fraternity among all participants in the war effort.

Structurally, the poem's rhythmic meter and rhyming couplets lend a sense of ceremony and gravitas to the subject matter. Meanwhile, the repetition of "not" in the first and final stanzas frames the poem with a sense of negation, underscoring the overlooked and undervalued status of these "khaki boys". The poem ultimately insists on a more expansive, inclusive understanding of heroism—one that recognizes and honors the unseen labor that enables others to fight.

Exploring Lyric Poetry

Lyric poetry is a powerful and intimate form of expression, characterized by its focus on the personal emotions and thoughts of the poet. Often musical in nature, lyric poems resonate with readers through their vivid language and rhythmic flow, capturing moments of intense feeling.

Here are some key characteristics that define lyric poetry:

  • Expressive Language: Lyric poems use rich and evocative language to convey deep emotions, often painting a vivid picture of the poet's inner world.
  • Personal Perspective: Typically written in the first person, these poems offer a window into the poet's personal experiences, thoughts, and reflections.
  • Musicality: Lyric poems often feature a rhythmic structure, with meter and rhyme that give them a song-like quality, enhancing the emotional impact.

From ancient odes to contemporary free verse, lyric poetry remains a beloved and enduring form, celebrated for its ability to articulate the nuances of human emotion in a way that resonates deeply with readers.