Structure and Content Analysis of "Remains" by Simon Armitage

The poem "Remains" by Simon Armitage is a powerful exploration of war trauma and its lasting psychological effects on soldiers. This analysis delves into the poem's structure, language, and themes, providing insights into the poet's portrayal of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and guilt.

Structure and Narrative Flow

The poem's structure mirrors the fragmented and repetitive nature of traumatic memories. It begins with the soldier recounting a specific incident of confronting looters, then shifts to the aftermath and the lasting impact of the event.

Highlight: The non-linear structure reflects the soldier's disjointed thoughts and recurring flashbacks, a common symptom of PTSD.

Language and Tone

Armitage employs colloquial language and slang throughout the poem, making the soldier's voice authentic and relatable. This casual tone contrasts sharply with the violent content, emphasizing the psychological disconnect experienced by the narrator.

Example: The use of phrases like "legs it up the road" and "sort of inside out" creates a jarring juxtaposition between everyday speech and the brutal reality of war.

Imagery and Symbolism

The poem is rich in vivid, often disturbing imagery that brings the soldier's experiences to life.

Quote: "I see every round as it rips through his life - / I see broad daylight on the other side."

This powerful visual metaphor conveys the shocking reality of taking a life and the lasting impact it has on the soldier's psyche.

Themes and Emotions

The poem explores several interconnected themes:

1. Guilt and moral ambiguity
2. The dehumanizing effects of war
3. The lasting trauma of violence
4. The struggle to cope with PTSD

Vocabulary: PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) - A mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event, often characterized by flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety.

Poetic Devices

Armitage employs various poetic devices to enhance the poem's impact:

1. Enjambment: Creates a sense of urgency and reflects the soldier's racing thoughts
2. Repetition: Emphasizes the recurring nature of traumatic memories
3. Alliteration and sibilance: Adds to the sensory experience of the poem

Definition: Enjambment - The continuation of a sentence or phrase from one line of poetry to the next without a pause.

Historical Context

"Remains" is based on verbatim accounts from ex-soldiers, particularly those who served in the Iraq War around 2000. This grounding in real experiences lends authenticity to the poem and highlights the ongoing relevance of its themes.

Highlight: The poem serves as a powerful commentary on the long-term psychological effects of modern warfare on soldiers.

In conclusion, "Remains" is a masterful exploration of war trauma, using structure, language, and imagery to convey the devastating impact of violence on the human psyche. Armitage's poem stands as a poignant reminder of the hidden scars carried by many who have experienced the horrors of war.