"I Was Only Nineteen" is a poignant and powerful poem that speaks to the devastating effects of war on young people. Written by Australian singer-songwriter John Schumann, the poem tells the story of a young man who is sent to fight in the Vietnam War.
The poem begins with the narrator, a 19-year-old soldier, reflecting on his youth and the innocence that he has lost. He talks about how he used to dream of adventure and excitement, but now all he wants is to go home. The first stanza ends with the powerful line, "I was only nineteen." This line not only emphasizes the young age of the narrator, but also serves as a reminder of the many other young men and women who have been sent to fight in wars throughout history.
The second stanza of the poem describes the horrors of war that the narrator has experienced. He talks about the "mad minutes" of battle and the fear that grips him as he tries to stay alive. He also mentions the "booby traps" and "sudden" deaths that he has witnessed, as well as the "bombs and the bullets" that have taken the lives of his comrades.
The third stanza of the poem focuses on the aftermath of war and the emotional toll that it takes on the narrator. He talks about how he has "seen too much" and how he struggles to sleep at night. He also mentions the "shrapnel in my knees" and the "scars" that he will carry with him for the rest of his life.
The final stanza of the poem is a plea for peace and understanding. The narrator asks that we remember the sacrifices of those who have fought in wars and work towards a world where such violence is no longer necessary. He ends the poem with the lines, "I was only nineteen / But my dreams were all shattered / The ones that I had held so dear / I was only nineteen." These lines drive home the point that war not only takes a physical toll on soldiers, but also destroys their hopes and dreams.
In conclusion, "I Was Only Nineteen" is a poignant and powerful poem that speaks to the devastating effects of war on young people. Its message of peace and understanding is one that resonates with readers of all ages, and serves as a reminder of the need to work towards a more peaceful world.