Question

what literary device is use here and how does it add to the tone and the mood of the poem? why? dulce et decocrum by Owen
gas shells dropping softly behind

Answer 1

In the line "gas shells dropping softly behind" from Wilfred Owen's poem "Dulce et Decorum Est," the literary device employed is **juxtaposition**. The phrase contrasts the brutal imagery associated with war (gas shells) and the adverb "softly," which connotes gentleness and tranquility. This stark contrast creates a dissonance that enhances the overall impact of the poem.

**1. Tone:** The juxtaposition contributes to a tone of irony and bitterness. By using the word "softly," Owen highlights the horrific nature of war while simultaneously exposing the false notion of glory often associated with it. The soft sound of the shells dropping suggests a mundane or peaceful event, which is in direct opposition to the death and suffering caused by chemical warfare. This irony reveals Owen's disillusionment with the glorification of war.

**2. Mood:** The mood created by this line is one of foreboding and unease. The softness of the gas shells can evoke a sense of false security or calm, underscoring the unpredictability and danger of the battlefield. It suggests that beneath the surface of what might seem 'soft' or manageable lies a horrific reality. This complexity adds to the overall somber and tragic mood of the poem, immersing readers in the grim realities faced by soldiers.

In summary, the use of juxtaposition in this line effectively deepens the poem's tone of irony and bitterness while creating a mood of unease, emphasizing the stark contrast between the romanticized ideal of war and the gruesome reality experienced by soldiers.