Critique Paper on “In Flanders Field”

By: Kahlel Renzo L. Iyoy

“In Flanders Field” is a poem written during World War I by Lieutenant Colonel
John McCrae, a Canadian physician, and soldier. The poem is set in the fields of Flanders,
Belgium, where some of the bloodiest battles of the war took place. McCrae wrote the poem in
May 1915, after witnessing the death of his friend, Lieutenant Alexis Helmer, during the Second
Battle of Ypres. The poem has since become one of the most famous war poems and pieces of
Canadian literature in history and is often recited during Remembrance Day ceremonies in
Canada and other Commonwealth countries.

One of the things I like about "In Flanders Field" is how simple and straightforward
it is. The poem is brief, with only three stanzas, yet it powerfully conveys the theme of sacrifice
and the courage of men who perished in combat. The vision of crimson poppies spreading over
the graves of slain soldiers is both painful and memorable. The repetition of the first line of the
first verse, "In Flanders fields, the poppies blow," is helpful in generating a feeling of continuity
and connection between the past and present.

One potential criticism of "In Flanders Field" is that it idealizes war and glorifies the
sacrifice of soldiers. While the poem acknowledges the tragedy of death and the toll it takes on
families and loved ones, it still seems to celebrate the idea of dying for one's country. This
perspective may not resonate with those who view war as a senseless and tragic loss of life.

The central message of "In Flanders Field" is that the sacrifices made by soldiers in
war are not in vain and that their memories and legacies should be honored and remembered.
The poem acknowledges the sadness and grief of war, but it also emphasizes the nobility and
heroism of those who fought and died for their country. The image of the red poppies growing
over the graves of the fallen soldiers represents the enduring nature of their sacrifice.

Overall, "In Flanders Field" is an effective and memorable poem that conveys a clear
message about the importance of honoring and remembering the sacrifices made by soldiers in
war. The simple yet powerful imagery of the red poppies and the repetition of the opening line
create a strong emotional impact, and the poem's brevity and directness make it accessible to a
wide audience. However, some may criticize the poem's idealization of war and its glorification
of sacrifice, which may limit its resonance with those who view war as a tragic and avoidable
loss of life.