Whilst poets such as Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon have become dominating figures of WW1 poetry, hundreds of others put pen to paper to less notoriety. Sharing their works for all to enjoy, Robert Wickson announces a new compilation of forgotten WW1 poetry.
United Kingdom–Hidden deep in the archives of literature are a myriad of little-known WW1 poems. Often referred to as the ‘forgotten’ Tommy poems, these light-hearted and easy to read verses are now being made available for the first time as part of a compelling new book.
Compiled by Robert Wickson, ‘The Forgotten Tommy Poets of WW1’shares their thoughts, dreams and aspirations directly from the trenches of Europe. While never intended for publication, their fascinating works offer an illuminating insight into a world most will never experience.
Synopsis:
“There are so many well-known and established ‘Great War’ poets, but the poems in this small volume are significantly different. They were written anonymously (for security reasons) and there were written by novices for easy reading.
No one needs to be a ‘purist’ or ‘academic’ poetry reader in order to enjoy this book. The purpose of them was simply to provide some light release and entertainment for ‘chums’ in the trenches, and not for ‘Joe Public’.
You will find yourself reading these poems again and again. You will find humor where you would least expect it, and there is irony, grit, frustration and complaints galore. Among them you will find many ‘gems’ and favourites. As you read, always bear in mind where, when and by whom they were written.
Overlooked and forgotten for almost ninety years, and never separately published before now, the verse in this volume is presented to take its full place within the genre and canon of ‘Great War’ poetry, where it belongs.”
As the author explains, the often unimaginable circumstances under which the poems were written were once a very real reality.
“The soldiers were from the 12 Battalion of the Sherwood Foresters and cover a period from 1916 to the end of fighting in February of 1918,” Wickson explains.
He continues, “The idea that they would ever be published to the general public would not even have entered their heads. That is the beauty behind the verses – they reflect the true tribulations and struggles of their creators.”
As it’s the first time these poems have been published, Wickson is confident the soldiers would approve.
“After so long a rest, this verse will hopefully now be read and enjoyed by more than whom it was originally written for. I feel sure the originators would like that,” he adds.
About the Author:
After leaving school without an 'O level' to his name, Robert Wickson was running a building society branch at 26.
He later moved into industry as a financial controller and at the same time was a part time lecturer in law at Bournemouth University.
His third book - a novel about a Polish family in WW2 - will be published in 2013.