Old Fighting-Men

Author: Rudyard Kipling

All the world over, nursing their scars,
Sit the old fighting-men broke in the wars,
Sit the old fighting-men, surly and grim
Mocking the lilt of the conquerors' hymn.

Dust of the battle o'erwhelmed them and hid.
Fame never found them for aught that they did.
Wounded and spent to the lazar they drew,
Lining the road where the Legions roll through.

Sons of the Laurel who press to your meed,
(Worthy God's pity most, you who succeed!)
Ere you go triumphing, crowned, to the stars,
Pity poor fighting-men, broke in the wars!
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Type of Poem: Ballad

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

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Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poignant poem explores the theme of forgotten heroes, focusing on the plight of aging veterans who bear the physical and emotional scars of combat, yet remain overlooked by society. The tone is solemn and reflective, underscoring the harsh reality of the warriors' lives post-war.

The structure of the poem is consistent, displaying a regular rhythm and rhyme scheme. This may serve to reflect the unchanging, stagnant existence of the veterans -- a stark contrast to their past lives of action and valor. The repetition of the phrase 'broke in the wars' at the end of the first and last stanzas creates a cyclical effect, emphasizing the ongoing struggles these men face.

The poet employs powerful imagery and metaphors throughout the poem. The line 'Dust of the battle o'erwhelmed them and hid' suggests the obscurity and disregard these veterans are subjected to, despite their significant contributions. The 'lilt of the conquerors' hymn' symbolizes the glory and honor that society bestows upon the victorious, often at the expense of those who have sacrificed the most. The final stanza serves as a poignant appeal to the successful - those 'sons of the Laurel' - to remember and empathize with these 'poor fighting-men'. Overall, the poem is a thought-provoking exploration of war, sacrifice, and societal neglect.

Understanding Ballads

A ballad is a form of verse, often a narrative set to music, that has been a cornerstone of storytelling across various cultures. Traditionally passed down orally, ballads are known for their rhythmic structure and often tell tales of love, adventure, and heroism.

Ballads are characterized by their strong rhythm and repetition, making them both memorable and engaging. Here are some defining features:

  • Narrative Structure: Ballads typically tell a story, often a dramatic or emotional tale that unfolds in a straightforward, chronological order.
  • Quatrain Stanzas: Most ballads are composed of quatrains (four-line stanzas) with a rhyme scheme of ABAB or ABCB, which adds to the musicality of the verse.
  • Repetition: Refrains or repeated lines are common in ballads, helping to emphasize key themes or emotions and making the ballad easier to remember.
  • Oral Tradition: Many ballads originated from oral traditions, which means they were passed down through generations by word of mouth before being written down.

From medieval minstrels to contemporary songwriters, ballads have continued to evolve, remaining a beloved form of expression that captures the human experience in a way that is both poetic and accessible.