Structure

• The first stanza has a slow, turgid pace due to the first sentence layering clause on top of clause. This creates a turgid tone, reflecting the soldier feeling that the march will never end
• However, the second stanza is fast paced through one word sentence and exclamation mark. This reflects the same sense of panic as the gas attack unfold.
• The pace slows again in the final stanza to reflect the feeling that war is never ending. Owen uses the second person ( ‘you,’ ‘my friend’) to address the reader personally, creating an uncomfortable and accusatory tone. These final lines are clearly aimed at those in command