Destruction of War
The poem highlights the all-consuming nature of war and both the physical and mental effects it has on the world. The use of a tornado to symbolize Germany is significant as it likens the war to a natural disaster that destroys everything in its way. Of course, the irony is that this is a man made disaster, with the onslaught of deaths being caused by humans - not nature.
Humanity is fading
Owen suggests that the world “wails” to return to normal but this is no longer possible. He describes “famines”, not only in food and physical resources, but also of “thoughts” and “feelings”. Humanity is “rot[ting]” away, and he is unsure whether we can ever break out of this emotionless mould that the war has thrust us into.
Seasons
The Speaker uses the seasons to describe the effects of war. They begin by stating that war is like the winter time, a bleak and desolate time where nothing can grow to fruition. Even when Spring and Autumn eventually come about, instead of inducing new life, the Speaker suggests that only “blood” will stain the Earth.
