Memorial Tablet

Read 'Memorial Tablet' by 'Siegfried Sassoon' and provide your summary and literary analysis in the comments section below.

Memorial Tablet by Siegfried Sassoon

 Squire nagged and bullied till I went to fight, 
(Under Lord Derby’s Scheme). I died in hell— 
(They called it Passchendaele). My wound was slight, 
And I was hobbling back; and then a shell 
Burst slick upon the duck-boards: so I fell 
Into the bottomless mud, and lost the light. 

At sermon-time, while Squire is in his pew, 
He gives my gilded name a thoughtful stare: 
For, though low down upon the list, I’m there; 
‘In proud and glorious memory’ ... that’s my due.
Two bleeding years I fought in France, for Squire: 
I suffered anguish that he’s never guessed. 
Once I came home on leave: and then went west... 
What greater glory could a man desire?

Form: Sonnet Comments

Comments About This Poem

Share your interpretation, favorite passage, or thoughts about this famous poem. Please provide an in-depth and meaningful comment.

  • What do you think the poet was trying to say?
  • Which line had the biggest impact on you?
  • How does this poem relate to modern life?
  • What literary devices did you notice?
No comments have been posted yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace