The Young British Soldier Comments
When the 'arf-made recruity goes out to the East
'E acts like a babe an' 'e drinks like a beast,
An' 'e wonders because 'e is frequent deceased
Ere 'e's fit for to serve as a soldier.
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Of all Kipling's verse, his ones from the point of view of the rank and file soldiery stand out. The final verse of this poem is particularly poignant (and valid!) in view of the current war.
I first read this poem as a 17 YO Marine recruit. I carried Kipling's works with me for 24 years including two wars and countless expediditons. Found Kipling to be a good read no matter how many times.
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7/25/2025 11:17:14 AM # 1.0.0
The last verse brings home the fact that 150 years has not changed certain people