This short poem is about ANZAC Day. It includes rhyme and alliteration.
“ANZAC Poem”
By Kia West
A day set aside each year for two countries to remember
The sacrifice and courage of each military member
A date set to commemorate a bloody, months long battle
And an enduring spirit that no enemy can rattle
For every man and woman who has fought for us yet
Each year we pause in silence, lest we forget.
Poetic Devices:
Rhyme
Alliteration
More About the “ANZAC Poem”…
ANZAC stands for Australia and New Zealand Army Corps. ANZAC Day is a commemorative day in Australia and New Zealand, held on April 25 each year to remember all those who have served in the military of these two countries. Significantly, this date is the anniversary of the Gallipoli landing of 1915, where ANZACs landed at what is now know as ANZAC cove and faced an uphill battle against Turkish troops. While the ANZACs were not successful in this campaign- which lasted until January of 1916- they became known for their ANZAC spirit. This is shared characteristics, such as courage, loyalty, irreverence and humour in the face of terrible circumstances.
Traditionally, ANZAC services are held at dawn in recognition of the military “stand-to”, when soldiers would be woken before dawn to prepare for attacks that could occur in the half-light of dawn, when the enemy was at their weakest. They include elements such as the singing of the Australian and New Zealand anthems, wreath laying, playing of the Last Post, minute of silence and recitation of a poem. Sometimes, even military animals are specifically remembered in the service.
The purpose of ANZAC Day ceremonies is not to celebrate war, but to remember the sacrifice of those who have served or are serving in the military.
This poem has a single verse of six lines, comprised of three rhyming couplets. It also includes alliteration, when consonant sounds are repeated at the beginning of words.
For more poems based on history, click on the link below.
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