War's Embers, and Other Verses

"War's Embers, and Other Verses" by Ivor Gurney is a collection of poetry written in the aftermath of World War I, published in the early 20th century. This poignant volume encapsulates the experiences and emotions of soldiers and civilians alike during a time marked by profound loss and the search for meaning amidst the devastation of war. Gurney’s verses reflect not only the horrors of battle but also the enduring beauty of life and memory, drawing heavily on his connections to the landscapes of England, particularly the Severn and the Gloucester region. The collection encompasses a range of themes, including nostalgia for peaceful rural life, the bonds of friendship among soldiers, the experiences of wounds both physical and emotional, and the quest for solace in art and nature. Gurney's poems convey vivid imagery and deep emotions, often juxtaposing the serene beauty of the English countryside with the harsh realities faced in the trenches. Works like "The Volunteer" and "The Day of Victory" express hope and despair, exploring the contrasts between wartime experiences and the simplicity of home life. Through Gurney's evocative language, readers are treated to an intimate look at the nature of war, memory, and human resilience in the face of suffering. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Ivor Bertie Gurney was an English poet and composer, particularly of songs. He was born and raised in Gloucester. He suffered from bipolar disorder through much of his life and spent his last 15 years in psychiatric hospitals. Critical evaluation of Gurney has been complicated by this, and also by the need to assess both his poetry and his music. Gurney himself thought of music as his true vocation: "The brighter visions brought music; the fainter verse".