This third poem captures the cyclical nature of war and the passing of the torch from one generation to the next. The speaker, likely a WWI veteran, observes young Bill – the son of his old comrade – as he prepares to serve in the current conflict.
The Young & Old
by Patricia Savage
Say who's that going down the street?
Why isn't that young Bill?
He certainly looks smart and neat,
In that new khaki drill.
It seems 'twas only yesterday,
Since he was such a lad,
But now I see in many every way,
That he's just like his Dad.
I remember meeting old Bill,
Upon that distant shore.
Together we had stormed that hill,
The last great world wide war.
We fought like hell in the fields there,
Where the blood-red poppies grow.
And we were so proud that we could share,
In striking the winning blow.
And once again they're asking,
For Anzacs brave & true.
To go into the fighting,
For the likes of me and you.
Young Bill has heard his countrys call,
And answer it he will!
For that young lad so straight and tall
Is the son of my friend Bill.
This poem presents a poignant snapshot of wartime generations, set against the backdrop of World War II with echoes of World War I. The speaker, likely a WWI veteran, observes young Bill – the son of his old comrade – as he prepares to serve in the current conflict. The poem deftly weaves themes of generational service, patriotic duty, and the cyclical nature of war.
It reflects on the bonds formed in wartime and the continuity of service and sacrifice across generations. The tone is largely one of pride and patriotism, though there's an underlying sadness in the repetition of history.
Through its simple rhyme scheme and conversational tone, the poem draws parallels between father and son, answering their country's call in different eras. References to Anzacs and blood-red poppies root the narrative in the historical context of Australian and New Zealand military service.
The speaker's reflections blend pride in service with a touch of nostalgia for his own wartime experiences. There's an underlying current of admiration for young Bill, mixed perhaps with unspoken concern as history repeats itself.
Overall, the poem captures the continuity of sacrifice across generations, the bonds forged in wartime, and the bittersweet reality of young men following in their father's footsteps to serve their country. It's a tribute to the enduring spirit of service, while subtly hinting at the recurring tragedy of war.
AI representation of a young Australian man in Kahki Drill
