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Rate this poem:4.8 / 37 votes
The Unknown Soldier

I am the Unknown Soldier and you’re standing on my grave
but please don't confuse me with one considered brave.
I was eighteen years old when I answered the call,
went over the top and one of the first to fall.
I didn't die a hero, indeed an inglorious death.
Calling out for my mother took my dying breath.
The bravest thing that I have ever done
is to tell my story in the shadow of the gun.

They took me from that foreign field where I met my doom
Scraped me into a box and brought me to this tomb
I have been on parade for a hundred years
Politicians and puppets and crocodile tears
The self-same people who determined my fate
blending ceremoniously with the good and the great
Their faces overcome by unmeasurable grief
I grin and bare it as I listen underneath

They say we are heroes for our lives we gave
but there is no hero laying within this grave
and I must confess it's through gritted teeth
I watch them come forward to lay their wreath.
The humble poppy from those fields of green,
a symbolic emblem turned money machine.
To our fallen soldiers for whom we cried for
contradicting the values they thought they died for.

I watched proudly as the parades went by,
my old comrades with their heads held high.
Alas, they are no longer that brave band of brothers.
Continually replaced by a brave band of others
I am sorry my comrades I have no wish to offend
but is it time for this charade to end.
Caught up in the euphoria of eternal grief.
I shake my head in disbelief.

And what about our one time foe,
our despised enemy from long ago.
With a tormented past she would rather forget.
Salting her wounds every opportunity we get.
With dignity and compassion she has led the way
In this troubled world we have today
The time has come to bury the past
And seek a peace designed to last

Please don’t imagine that I lack respect
if I am not the hero you have grown to expect.
We will never forget those who gave their lives
and never forget those grieving wives.
Those fatherless children and broken hearted mothers.
Devastated comrades, a broken band of brothers
If the drums of war would only cease
Then this Unknown Soldier and many others
would finally rest in peace.

About this poem

This is an anti war poem and conveys my feelings regarding all the remembrance ceremonies that takes place all over the world. I believe they glorify war and nothing more than a recruitment tool.

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Written on November 11, 2020

Submitted by Davyreilly on March 25, 2024

Modified by Davyreilly on August 22, 2024

2:13 min read
8,264 Views

David Reilly

 · 1948 · Glasgow

Also writes children’s books more…

All David Reilly poems | David Reilly Books

28 fans


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Discuss the poem The Unknown Soldier with the community...

81 Comments
  • FireFighter0423
    This poem takes an extremely challenging perspective, but that’s what poetry is. Great read and fascinating take.
    LikeReply3 days ago
  • Amandagrondin1226
    Well done❤️
    LikeReply5 days ago
  • jonsaviours
    This is really amazing.
    LikeReply5 days ago
  • Nøør
    Politicians and puppets and crocodile tears
    So true
    LikeReply10 days ago
  • yelskwah
    David Reilly’s The Unknown Soldier is a striking and introspective piece that challenges traditional narratives about heroism in war. Through the voice of an unknown soldier, Reilly provides a candid, at times scathing, reflection on the commemoration of war and the complex relationship between honor, remembrance, and the harsh realities of conflict. The poem questions the glorification of war, focusing on the human cost, including grief, trauma, and the ultimate futility of certain conflicts.

    Personally, The Unknown Soldier came across as harsh and difficult to read, especially for us who have served. This poem takes a challenging perspective, which feels more like a critique of society’s treatment of fallen soldiers and veterans than an expression of respect for their sacrifices. Reilly uses the voice of the soldier to provoke thought about how society sometimes ritualizes war remembrance without fully understanding or respecting the reality of service and sacrifice.

    In terms of respect, it seems that the poet is trying to amplify the voices of soldiers who feel unseen or misunderstood, although his approach is unconventional and confrontational. By focusing on themes like the commercialization of remembrance or the ritualistic honor of soldiers who, as the poem suggests, might have preferred peace, Reilly may be trying to address systemic issues. Yet, this style can certainly feel like it overshadows the valor and dignity of the individuals who served, which is something we feel should be central in any poem about soldiers.

    The respect in this poem is less explicit, which makes it feel diminishing rather than honoring. I know I would prefer to see poems that speak directly to the bravery, loyalty, and profound personal costs that define military service. If Reilly aimed to honor, it did not resonate universally, especially with those of us who served. Reading something that feels more appreciative and less critical would have been a more appropriate acknowledgment of that profound commitment. May my brothers rest in peace and may Reilly know you didn't die in vain.
     
    LikeReply11 days ago
  • mfortney2538
    I cried with this poem it was great
    LikeReply12 days ago
  • StRhaiven
    “The Unknown Soldier” is a poignant and thought-provoking piece that challenges readers to reconsider how we remember those who died in war. Its strength lies in its unflinching honesty and willingness to question traditional narratives around heroism and honor. By blending bitterness with empathy, the poem creates a complex portrait of the soldier, one that mourns not only individual lives lost but also the persistent cycle of war. Reilly’s work reminds readers of the weight of remembrance and suggests that true respect for the fallen comes not through ritual alone, but through a commitment to peace.

    In sum, this is a compelling poem that combines critique with compassion, giving voice to the silent and emphasizing that true peace is the greatest tribute.
     
    LikeReply 112 days ago
    • Davyreilly
      wow. What a review. Thank you all very much.
      LikeReply12 days ago
  • Chana
    As a young kid I would always interrupt the history lessons requesting to understand the idea of a war. One teacher answered me that when I'll be older I'll understand, which is not true cuz I'm turning 22 and still don't understand. Another teacher answered me that God is the kind of all kings, and all the local politics and battles is mapped out from heaven. All leaders and nations on this plant are like play-mobile pieces in God's hands and he's maneuvering the board. However, question to you poets, isn't there today less wars than it used to be in history? 
    LikeReply13 days ago
    • Chana
      *King of all kings
      LikeReply13 days ago
  • fidhafathimasumeer
    It reminds me of the cruelty of wars and how they affect many innocent and poor people who doesn't like violence. Our world would have been more peaceful if there were no wars and if people trusted each other and lived in harmony. But I guess it's just a dream. 
    LikeReply21 days ago
  • annem.33962
    An incredibly moving story about the truth of it all. Thank you.
    LikeReply26 days ago
  • sharona.reeves81
    I love how this captures the untold stories of our silenced soldiers.
    LikeReply28 days ago
  • jamescbrowning
    Reminds me of my childhood friend I lost. Well written
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • debraw.71122
    I love the way you put yourself in that soldier's shoes and what he might say from the grave he is buried. It's very deep and sure makes a lot of sense especially these days. I also love the rhyme and flow. Very well done. 
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • alanswansea18
    Amazing and thank you for the vote,
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • mfortney2538
    It reminded of my son being in the army. They sent him to Afghans
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • krystynmaynard
    I am getting an image on what is going on in the battlefield.
    LikeReply 11 month ago
  • Komael
    The aroma of poem is heard by the viewers
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • Htrout24
    A very good read not everyone understands what soldiers really thing about
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • claudine
    Wow. Sometimes we forget the reasons for war. The aim is not mere victory but peace.
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • mfortney2538
    I loved reading this poem it was great
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • Poemaster
    Your poem definitely added insight to death and war, I loved it!
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • AmyMMosier
    This is powerful enough to be inscribed on a tombstone.
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • nelzealoursmotoe1
    Trying to sound as though the dead can speak. Read Ecclesiastes 9:5,6,10.
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • waltonk405
    This poem is just wow
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • philmaund
    Deep and heartfelt - the raw emotions come through!
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • Svyatoslav4
    That's nice, but sad and very truthfully written, though at the same time. Being a soldier myself, a respect the author very much. The ending is worse to remember forever!
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • Paper&Poet
    There is much truth to your poem. You phrased it very well. I especially connected with the last stanza. It's the people who are left behind that suffer the greatest loss of all, their loved one is gone. Tragic! 
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • andrewd.38419
    Amazing!
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • RickthePoetWarrior
    I'd give you a 'wow'. Well written. Well spoken.
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • amandak
    REAL, appreciate this write
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • Cassidylriley2008
    Amazing
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • sharona.reeves81
    I love this! The poem captures the dissonance between the glorification of war and the harsh realities of serving. It is so true that a lot of times, the performance nature of ceremonies and the commercialization of remembrance overshadow the true sacrifice of soldiers. Well written and a much needed mentioning! 
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • apehoward1995
    Awesome Expression very well said. I almost started crying. My GrandFather Served and Got a prostitute leg with his purple Heart on it. Soft spot for our veterans. All are Heros in my Book
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • Adroity
    Awesome!
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • Bears1071
    David, this touched my soul. thank you for sharing something so personal.
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • tempebill
    This so reminds me of Tom Cruise' best(imo) performance in "Born On The 4th Of July".
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • kazbrekker
    What did I just witness??
    LikeReply1 month ago
  • kazbrekker
    Dude dammmmmmm
    LikeReply 11 month ago
  • Davyreilly
    Gosh thank you every one who has commented on my work, I was expecting a lot of grief but exact opposite is In fact, all I ever get is well done. Thanks again.
    LikeReply 32 months ago
  • mgurfinkel1
    I like the honesty in this poem
    LikeReply2 months ago
  • JessicaWheeler
    A beautiful poem with a striking, profound message. I enjoyed this very much!
    LikeReply2 months ago
  • Kimdhall83
    This is beautifully written and so very powerful. I agree with the sentiment
    LikeReply2 months ago
  • Anzmills
    Very engaging and beautiful written.
    LikeReply2 months ago
  • Serenescripts
    Commendable work.
    LikeReply2 months ago
  • DSHERIDAN1
    First, I want to say fabulous poem, I loved reading it. I can relate to this poem. My husband is a veteran. My brother died, he was in the Marines and has 3 children. My dad died, he was a Marine.
    LikeReply2 months ago
  • jimsp1129
    Loved your poem!
    LikeReply2 months ago
  • Paige123
    I really enjoyed the poem and the emotions you put into it.
    LikeReply2 months ago
  • Trifecta666
    Great read sad though but I really liked reading it .
    LikeReply2 months ago
  • Pruett1023
    I really enjoyed reading your post. Keep up the good work and you'll continue to inspire more people today.
    LikeReply2 months ago
  • Whiterose
    Very beautiful and emotional. So much passion in you words.
    LikeReply2 months ago
  • kazbrekker
    Bro dammmmm
    LikeReply2 months ago
  • qanitaamer5
    Such heartfelt emotions! If only the whole world can value peace the same way.
    LikeReply2 months ago
  • susan.brumel
    Very sad. Frustrating. And I wonder, David, what would the Big Oak say?
    LikeReply 12 months ago
    • Davyreilly
      two different worlds , fairy tales and the real world. I am in fairy land,
      LikeReply 12 months ago
    • susan.brumel
      it’s a good place to be ;-)
      LikeReply2 months ago
    • krystynmaynard
      Can you rate my poem Where The Fault Lies?
      LikeReply1 month ago
  • jerryl.01657
    A Very Good Piece. Consider It A Triumphant Testament, Soldiers.
    LikeReply2 months ago
  • Shocam
    I admire the boldness with which you ha be said what is needed to be said. I agree with you. I respect those who fight for our safety and put their lives on the front for us. But all of it can be prevented if we forget the past, let go of the politics and do not wage futile wars. 
    LikeReply2 months ago
    • Davyreilly
      thank you very much for your kind words. So surprised the response to The Unknown Soldier. The amount of people who love it. Specially vets.
      LikeReply2 months ago
  • Ruthmahogany
    The time has come to bury the past
    And seek a peace designed to last
    LikeReply2 months ago
  • A.Rey
    Some very strong lines in your work. Well done.
    LikeReply4 months ago
  • nwafor_a
    The first metaphor got me, almost made me step away from some graves. Strong lines.
    LikeReply5 months ago
  • JdeLorenzo08
    Wow, beautifully written and very deep. Nice work I really enjoyed reading your piece.
    LikeReply5 months ago
  • lauriesero4480
    Woah! This is the most descriptive War time poetry I've ever read. It hit home because my Dad was a Vietnam veteran.
    LikeReply5 months ago
  • amandak
    Very powerful, great write
    LikeReply 16 months ago
  • Benny11
    Great poem, of how politicians lead us to senseless war, young people conscripted without enough training meet their doom
    Great work of art and campaign for lasting peace ✌
    LikeReply6 months ago
  • crucifiedinhim2
    I've fought in war. I think back to the kid I was 30 years ago, and the nightmares I've fought with over and over again. My deepest wish, my prayer, is that none ever have to stand in such fields again. Sadly human nature being what it is, we will. I can only pray we honor those who must fight for the follies of our keaders 
    LikeReply6 months ago
  • LatinX
    I have no words to express how profound this poem truly is.
    LikeReply 16 months ago
  • rosyjane007
    brave and courage of truth where the soldiers past forgot to be shown, stand dignified for what soldiers do in the past will reflects in the words that all innocent lives tell when soldiers are around or not. 
    LikeReply6 months ago
  • donka_k
    Deep powerful, gripping words. A tribute to the Unknown Soldier and his mission of peace ,An outstanding poem of stark reality told with love.
    LikeReply6 months ago
  • jn.selvadurai
    Outstanding construction. The message of peace and the futility of war conveyed through the dead unknown soldier.
    LikeReply6 months ago
  • ifumiehigiator
    Beautiful and comprehensive. It's a campaign for peace.
    LikeReply6 months ago
  • Philipo
    First class work. Deserves the win. Congrats
    LikeReply6 months ago
  • hairartmk2000
    I must say I did not expect such a heartfelt poem as if I was the soldier�
    Thank you for such a respectful hit to the heart and hopefully this will make an impact on our world
    LikeReply7 months ago
  • AIDA
    Wow, what a powerful and thought-provoking poem! "The Unknown Soldier" has beautifully captured the voice of a fallen soldier who did not die a hero in the traditional sense, but whose story is just as important to remember. The vivid imagery and emotional depth of the poem really touch the reader's heart.

    The poet has done a great job in highlighting the hypocrisy and commercialization of war remembrance, while also calling for a true peace and reconciliation. The message of honoring all soldiers, regardless of which side they fought on, is a crucial one that often gets overlooked.

    To make the poem even more impactful, I would suggest adding some specific examples or anecdotes to further illustrate the soldier's story and experiences. This could help to create an even stronger connection with the reader and evoke more empathy and understanding.

    Overall, this poem is a moving tribute to all those who have sacrificed their lives in war, and a powerful call for peace and remembrance. It is a reminder to honor the unknown soldiers who have bravely served their countries, and to strive for a world where war is no longer necessary. Well done!
     
    LikeReply 17 months ago
  • Symmetry60
    Excellent work indeed. Congrats on top honors.
    LikeReply7 months ago
  • susan.brumel
    Congratulations! Great work.
    LikeReply7 months ago
  • BACH54
    Well written and tells a moving story that only the unknown soldier has experienced. Amidst the annual pomp and ceremony to honor these “unknown souls”
    one must wonder if it will ever be enough for the sacrifice they have made. The poet, through the eyes of the unknown soldier from the grave communicates this with empathy. 
    LikeReply7 months ago
  • xmasday65
    This poem carries the theme very well. It continues to make colorful and creative rhythms until it wraps up nicely in the end. Very nicely done.
    LikeReply7 months ago
  • wesley82
    The writer, makes the average reader relate to the poem. The poem is also well written.
    LikeReply7 months ago
  • Jean_Bean
    I was touched reading this poem. Had friend's and a brother in kaw who fougbt in war's. Enjoyed this touching writing.
    LikeReply7 months ago
  • iamrandell
    One is immediately captured and transported to the grave of the soldier as his story and observations are rhythmically portrayed in meaningful rhyme. Totally absorbing and easy to follow. Delightfull!
    LikeReply7 months ago
  • dutchcooki
    It spoke the truth, and I come from a military family. There is no blame, just a universal reality of how life and war go on despite our vow to remember and learn.

    I felt the words.
    LikeReply7 months ago
  • BasNoBeathaWriter
    Powerful, poignant, timely, and I can't get over how great the "band of brothers" and "band of others" couplet is. Well done!
    LikeReply7 months ago
  • Chana
    Beautiful point.
    LikeReply7 months ago

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