The family wishes he fulfilled his duty = The solider has disgraced his families honour and is shunned out for being a coward. The family already prepared to move on from his death.
'head full of powerful incantations'
Glamourised patriotism = referring to the influence and brainwashing of propaganda. It was certain death that he was manipulated to accept. 'samuraisword' = represents sacrifice, reference to samurai code of honour = if a samurai loses honour they can regain it by committing suicide.
'Strung out like bunting on a green-blue translucent sea'
Natural imagery to show inner conflict = 'Bunting' celebration. two colours are the pros and cons = blue is serenity (calm), sea and sky = craving freedom. 'Translucent' he is seeing through 'powerful incantations'.
'huge flag waved... figure of eight'
explore struggles = 'flag' = patriotism. 'figure of eight' = infinity. This is a signal soldiers make when surrendering. This soldier refuses to commit as he wants to watch his children grow. The fact the flag is waved one way then another = changing his mind on the mission.
Structure = six lines stanzas showing a tight and controlled structure which reflects the military. However, this is contrasted with free verse and enjambment which lack control. The freedom of expression reflects the freedom the pilot wants. This conflict between wanting to serve his country and wanting to enjoy the beauty of life and nature
