Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

THE FURY OF AERIAL BOMBARDMENT, by RICHARD GHORMLEY EBERHART Poet Analysis Poet's Biography

"The Fury of Aerial Bombardment" is a poem by American poet Richard Ghormley Eberhart. It was first published in 1942, during the height of World War II, and is a powerful response to the destruction and devastation wrought by aerial bombing.

Explanation:

The poem is a reflection on the devastating impact of aerial bombing on both human beings and the natural world. It begins by describing the "terrible beauty" of the bombs as they fall from the sky, and the way that they transform the landscape and destroy everything in their path. The poem then turns to the human cost of bombing, as it describes the "screaming children" and the "bloodied women" who are left in the aftermath of the attacks. Through its powerful imagery and stark language, the poem conveys the sense of horror and senselessness that accompanies war.

Essential Poetic Elements:

Free verse: The poem is written in free verse, allowing the poet to experiment with line length and structure, and to create a more natural, conversational tone. No rhyme scheme.
Repetition: The poem uses repetition to create a sense of urgency and intensity.
Imagery: The poem is filled with vivid and evocative imagery that helps to bring the scene to life. Metaphor: Eberhart uses metaphor to create a deeper meaning within the poem.
Allusion: The poem also makes use of allusion, or references to other literary works, to deepen its meaning.

Rhyme Scheme: None

Conclusion:

"The Fury of Aerial Bombardment" is a powerful and moving poem that speaks to the horrors of war and the devastating impact of aerial bombing. Through its vivid imagery, repetition, and allusions to myth and history, the poem captures the sense of chaos and destruction that accompanies armed conflict. At the same time, the poem offers a reminder of the human cost of war, as it portrays the innocent victims caught in the crossfire. Overall, "The Fury of Aerial Bombardment" stands as a powerful testament to the need for peace and understanding in a world torn apart by violence.

Poem Snippet:

"And hearts of oak are little chips

In a blackened river,

Watching the logs of martyrs

And the birds go down.