Burden

Burden is a poetry collection that tells the story of Private Herbert Burden, a seventeen-year-old British soldier who was shot for desertion during World War I. The author discovered that his uncle, Lance Corporal Smith, had befriended Burden but then was commanded to join in the firing squad that killed him. Smith's account is an object lesson in why poetry matters, as it takes us to places even the best journalism can't reach.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 72 pages
Publication date: 24 October 2020
Publisher: University of Regina Press

Burden, a captivating poetry collection, delves into the poignant tale of Private Herbert Burden, a seventeen-year-old British soldier who met a tragic end during World War I. Tragically, he was one of hundreds who were executed for desertion, even though it is now recognized that many of them did not commit any crime but were grappling with the devastating effects of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The story is narrated through the eyes of Lance Corporal Reginald Smith, the author's uncle, who had a close bond with Private Burden before being ordered to participate in the firing squad that took his friend's life.

This slender book goes beyond mere indictments of war; it reveals the terrifying, senseless, and horrific aspects of conflict that mere words cannot fully capture. To fully convey these emotions, one must already be closing their eyes. Lance Corporal Smith's account serves as a powerful testament to the significance of poetry. It transports us to places that even the finest journalism cannot reach, offering a unique perspective on the human experience of war.

Through his vivid descriptions and heartfelt words, the author paints a vivid picture of the lives and sacrifices of the soldiers involved. Burden's story, in particular, highlights the devastating toll that war takes on individuals, both physically and mentally. It sheds light on the complex emotions that soldiers endure, from the fear and confusion of battle to the profound sense of loss and guilt that follows the loss of a friend.

The book also raises important questions about the nature of war and the responsibilities of those who participate in it. It challenges the notion that war is simply a clash of ideologies or a game of power, emphasizing the human cost of conflict. It reminds us of the importance of empathy, compassion, and understanding in navigating the complexities of war-torn societies.

In conclusion, Burden is a powerful and thought-provoking poetry collection that offers a unique perspective on the horrors of war. Through the eyes of Lance Corporal Smith, it delves into the lives and experiences of Private Herbert Burden and the broader context of World War I. It serves as a reminder of the human cost of conflict and the importance of empathy, compassion, and understanding in navigating the complexities of a world plagued by violence and conflict.

Weight: 36g
Dimension: 140 x 214 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780889777729