Year 9 have been studying how poetry sustains and challenges views on war, reflecting contextual influences and the impact of the industrial revolution.
Last Thursday, Year 9 had the privilege of watching a poetry performance by the professional group, Poetry in Action. Below, Year 9 student Rose C and Adeline C share their reflection on this dynamic and inspiring experience:
Through the ‘Poetry in Action’ workshop, we were able to question our perspectives on war in poetry. The expressive professional acting of the narrative in Dulce Et Decorum Est gave us an opportunity to thoroughly imagine war poet, Wilfred Owen’s experiences of WWI.
The brutality and tragedy of war was expressed through the actors’ captivating performance. In capturing emotions of desperation and fear, as the audience, we were effectively able to sympathise with the poet and his fellow soldiers in the tragic moments of war. Likewise, the blending of both comedic and dramatic elements in the workshop kept everyone highly engaged with the costumes bringing the poems to life, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the experience.
Different views were explored, allowing us to question our knowledge on the purpose of war, an honourable act for your country or its depiction as a harsh, brutal reality.
Overall, the ‘Poetry in Action’ workshop was extremely entertaining and allowed all of us to gain a better understanding on the shifting perspectives of war, and how they have been expressed in poetry.
- Rose C & Adeline C
Year 9 Student
