War Rhymes by Wayfarer   By: Abner Cosens

War Rhymes by Wayfarer is a collection of poems that delve into the emotional and psychological impact of war. Abner Cosens, the author, captures the raw experiences of soldiers and reflects on the devastating consequences that war brings.

One aspect that stands out in this collection is the way in which Cosens effectively uses poetry as a medium to convey the multifaceted reality of war. Each poem tells a different story, exploring themes of camaraderie, loss, pain, and resilience. The author's ability to evoke strong imagery through his words allows readers to vividly imagine the scenes of war and feel the intensity of each moment.

The poems are filled with emotional depth, offering a glimpse into the inner turmoil of soldiers who have witnessed the horrors of battle. Cosens portrays their struggles, fears, and hopes, enabling readers to connect with the characters on a profound level. The raw honesty and authenticity of the poems make them all the more powerful, as they resonate with the readers' own experiences and understanding of war.

Another notable aspect of War Rhymes by Wayfarer is the variety of forms and styles used by Cosens. From elegies and sonnets to free verse, each poem adds a unique layer to the overall narrative. This diversity keeps the collection engaging and prevents the reader from becoming complacent with the themes and ideas.

Furthermore, Cosens' skillful use of language is evident throughout the book. His well-crafted metaphors and vivid descriptions paint a poignant picture of the harsh realities of war. The use of rhymes and rhythm adds a musical quality to the poems, making them even more captivating.

One slight drawback to the collection is that some poems may feel repetitive in their themes and motifs. While this could be a deliberate choice by the author to emphasize certain aspects of war, it may cause some readers to lose interest or feel that they are rereading similar stanzas.

Overall, War Rhymes by Wayfarer is a powerful collection of poems that successfully captures the complexity and emotional impact of war. Abner Cosens' ability to immerse the reader in the experiences of soldiers is truly commendable. The carefully chosen words, poignant imagery, and variety of forms make this collection a must-read for those interested in exploring the human psyche during times of conflict.

First Page:

The outbreak of hostilities, the invasion of Belgium, the Old Land in it and the rush of the British born to enlist, the early indifference of the majority of Canadians, the unemployment and distress of the winter of 1914 15, the heartlessness of Germany, Canada stirred by the valor of her first battalions, recruiting general throughout the country, the slackness of the United States, financial and political profiteering in all countries, smaller European nations playing for position, Italy joining the Allies, the debacle of Russia, the awful casualty lists, the return of disabled soldiers, the ceaseless war work of our women, the United States at last declaring war on Germany, the final line up and defeat of the Hun, and the horror and apparent uselessness of it all; some reflection of all these may be found by the reader in these simple rhymes... Continue reading book >>