S. I. W.: Self Inflicted Wound.

Parable of the Old Men and the Young: A retold story from the Bible,
but with a different ending. The phrase "Abram bound the youth
with belts and straps" refers to the youth who went to war,
with all their equipment belted and strapped on. Other versions of this poem
have an additional line.

Dulce et Decorum est: The phrase "Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori"
is a Latin phrase from Horace, and translates literally something like
"Sweet and proper it is for your country (fatherland) to die."
The poem was originally intended to be addressed to an author
who had written war poems for children. "Dim through the misty panes . . ."
should be understood by anyone who has worn a gas mask.


Alan R. Light. Monroe, North Carolina, July, 1997.