One of the most well-known poems about war, In Flanders Fields was first published in December 1915. It was written by Canadian physician Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae during the First World War. The poem memorialises the April 1915 battle in Belgium’s Ypres salient.
McCrae tended to the injured for 17 days after the battle. The poem he wrote afterwards, in remembrance of a close friend who had died, was first published in Punch magazine. After appearing in London's Punch magazine, McCrae's somber thoughts on the sacrifice of war became popular. McCrae's focus was on the peace that follows death, as seen from the perspective of fallen soldiers lying in their graves. This also led to the poppy being adopted as the Flower of Remembrance for the British and Commonwealth war dead.
In Flanders Fields
By John McCrae, 1914
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie,
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
As Remembrance Day approaches, we reflect on the sacrifices made by our veterans. They have given so much to protect our freedoms and way of life. We owe them a tremendous debt of gratitude for fighting for our freedoms.
Read Ode of Remembrance
For over 30 years, we have been working with veteran organisations by providing stunning items to help you commemorate every day, and meaningful gifting items to share the remembrance and message with those you love.
Get out and support fundraising groups that help our veterans. There are many beautiful ways to show your support this year. If you cannot get out, you can also shop online and show support with practical and products, perfect to keep and gift for year-round remembrance. Explore our Remembrance Day Collection here.
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