Jessie Pope's war poems - Oswestry School

utpostIdying sunset's slanting raysIncarnadine the soldier's deed,His sturdy countenance betraysThe bull-dog breed.Not his to shun the stubborn fight,The struggle against cruel odds.Alone, unaided 'tis a sightFor men and gods.And now his back is bowed and bent,Now stooping, now erect he stands,And now the red life blood is sprentFrom both his hands.He takes his enemies on trustAs one who sees and yet isFor every mutilating thrustComes from behind.blind,'Tis done ! The dying sun has gone,But triumphfills the soldier's breast.He's sewn his back brace button onWhile fully dressed.