Poem Analysis: 'The Target' by Ivor Gurney

The slides are based on the poem 'The Target' written by Ivor Gurney. There is background information regarding the poem and the background of the Gurney is also mentioned. Themes of the poem is also mentioned.

1. Poem: ‘ The Target’ by Ivor Gurney Department of English (MKBU) Prepared by: Yashraj Sodha

2. Ivor Gurney Born: August 28, 1890 Died: December 26, 1937 Place of Birth: Gloucester, England Occupation: Poet, Composer Country: United Kingdom Contribution: Known for war poetry and music influenced by World War I. (Boden)

3. Poem: The Target I shot him, and it had to be One of us 'Twas him or me. 'Couln't be helped' and none can blame Me, for you would do the same My mother, she cant sleep for fear Of what might be a-happening here To me. Perhaps it might be best To die, and set her fears at rest For worst is worst, and worry's done. Perhaps he was the only son. . . Yet God keeps still, and does not say A word of guidance anyway. Well, if they get me, first I'll find That boy, and tell him all my mind, And see who felt the bullet worst, And ask his pardon,if I durst. All's a tangle. Here's my job. A man might rave, or shout, or sob; And God He takes takes no sort of heed. This is a bloody mess indeed. ( All Poetry)

4. Background of the Poem World War I Context: Lasted from 1914 to 1918, characterized by trench warfare and high casualties. Soldiers endured harsh conditions: mud, disease, and constant enemy fire. Gurney’s Military Service: Enlisted in 1915 with the Gloucestershire Regiment. Fought in major battles like the Somme, experiencing front-line combat and the loss of comrades. Personal Experiences: Gurney’s service led to psychological trauma, including symptoms of what was then called "shell shock" (now PTSD). His experiences of guilt and the brutality of war profoundly influenced his poetry, including "The Target. " (Boden)

5. Themes: Guilt and Remorse The Dehumanization of War Moral Ambiguity Futility and Absurdity of War Psychological Trauma

6. References : Boden, Anthony. “Biographical Outline of Ivor Gurney.” The Ivor Gurney Society, 2007, ivorgurney.co.uk/biographical-outline/. Accessed 31 Aug. 2024. “The Target by Ivor Gurney.” By Ivor Gurney - Famous Poems, Famous Poets. - All Poetry , allpoetry.com/The-Target . Accessed 31 Aug. 2024.

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