Dulce Et Decorum Est

Prior to entry into the war, soldiers were given a glorified perspective of the war which covered the harsh reality of the mass amount of death and bloodshed. Throughout the poem, there is the portrayal of what soldier’s experience and at what cost. The title of the poem, Dulce et Decorum Est, is ironic in itself. The title contrasts greatly from the pessimistic content within the poem. The negative perspective given of the war differs greatly from the title. Owen belittles the romantic heroism of war by incorporating a vivid representation of the truth of war, ““Gas! Gas! Quick, boys! -An ecstasy of fumbling/Fitting the clumsy helmets just in time;” (line 9). The dramatic action of the gas attack evokes a sense of anxiety and worrisome for the reader. By the creation of an experience by Owen, leads to a deeper understanding by the reader. The notion that if the soldiers don’t properly protect themselves in time, they will inevitable perish. The poem directly coincides with Owen's efforts to portray his personal experience during World War I.