Five War Epitaphs
I.. COMMON FORM
If any question why we died,
Tell them, because our fathers lied.
II. THE BEGINNER
On the first hour of my first day
In the front trench I fell.
(Children in boxes at a play
Stand up to watch it well.)
III. THE REFINED MAN
I was of delicate mind. I stepped aside for my needs,
Disdaining the common office. I was seen from afar
and killed …
How is this matter for mirth? Let each man be judged
by his deeds.
I have paid my price to live with myself on the terms that
I willed.
IV. ‘EQUALITY OF SACRIFICE’
A. ‘I was a Have.’ B. ‘I was a “Have-not.”’
(Together) ‘What hast thou given which I have not?’
V. THE COWARD
I could not look on Death, which being known,
Men led me to him, blindfold and alone.
