Form

• Free Verse

  • No regular rhyme scheme or rhythm → reflects the chaos and unpredictability of war.
  • Lack of control mirrors the soldier’s panic and mental fragmentation.
• Enjambment

  • Lines flow over without punctuation → mimics the breathless rush of action.
  • Represents the uncontrollable momentum of the charge and emotional overload.
• Caesura

  • Sudden pauses disrupt the flow (e.g., “In bewilderment then he almost stopped—”)
  • Highlights moments of hesitation, reflection, or shock.
  • Contrasts with enjambment to emphasise inner conflict and trauma.
• Irregular line lengths and irregular rhythm


  • Visually and rhythmically disjointed to reflect confusion and unpredictability.
  • No structured form = mirrors the disruption and instability caused by warfare.
• Anonymous speaker referred to as "he"

  • Soldier is unnamed → makes him universal.
  • Highlights the dehumanising effect of war and its impact on any soldier.
  • Links to theme of loss of identity and individual experience.