* Personal Experience: Sassoon served in the British Army during World War I, and his poems reflect his firsthand experience of the horrors of trench warfare. He witnessed the brutality, the loss of life, and the psychological toll it took on soldiers. His poetry is often characterized by its stark realism, its unflinching depiction of the violence, and its critique of the romanticized and glorified view of war prevalent at the time.
* Criticism of War: Sassoon was deeply critical of the war and its conduct, and his poems serve as a powerful indictment of the senseless violence and the hypocrisy of those who supported the war. He was particularly critical of the political and military leadership, which he saw as responsible for the suffering of the soldiers. His poems challenge the patriotic rhetoric of the time and expose the true cost of war.
* Voice for the Soldiers: Sassoon's poems gave voice to the experiences and feelings of ordinary soldiers, many of whom felt disillusioned and betrayed by the war. His poems captured the weariness, fear, and despair of those who fought in the trenches, helping to break the silence surrounding the realities of warfare.
* Desire for Peace: Sassoon's anti-war stance was fueled by his desire for peace. He believed that war was ultimately destructive and pointless, and his poems served as a call for an end to the conflict.
* Literary Expression: Beyond the political and social context, Sassoon was a talented poet who used his craft to express his personal experiences, emotions, and ideas. His poems are notable for their use of imagery, rhythm, and language, showcasing his literary skill and his ability to evoke powerful emotions in the reader.
In conclusion, Siegfried Sassoon wrote poems about war because he had lived through the horrors of WWI, he wanted to expose the truth and futility of war, he wanted to give a voice to the soldiers, and he deeply desired peace. His work remains relevant today as a reminder of the cost of war and the importance of peace.