Here's a breakdown of the poem's themes:
* The inevitability of war: The poem opens with a stark image of the soldiers marching off to war, "Their boots of England, marching, trampling, trod." This emphasizes the inevitability of their fate, as they are forced to leave their homes and families.
* The disconnect between civilian life and the realities of war: The poem highlights the stark contrast between the peaceful and familiar imagery of the village (like the "church-bells faintly" and the "sunset" ) and the grim reality of war that awaits the soldiers. This creates a sense of alienation and disconnect between those who are sending the soldiers off and those who are going to war.
* The emotional toll of war on the soldiers: Owen vividly depicts the soldiers' fear, anxiety, and uncertainty as they embark on their journey: "With eyes that only the heart can see, They marched away, the lads of eighteen, some, And older men, too."
* The grief and sacrifice of those left behind: The poem doesn't just focus on the soldiers' experience but also on the grief of those left behind. The "mothers" and "wives" who will have to live with the weight of their loved ones' absence and the possibility of their deaths are central to the poem's message.
* The futility of war: Through the poem's somber tone and repeated emphasis on loss, "The Send-Off" suggests the tragic futility of war and its devastating impact on individuals and society.
Overall, "The Send-Off" is a deeply moving and thought-provoking poem that serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of war. It challenges the reader to consider the impact of conflict on both the soldiers and those left behind.