In today's modern world, the use of poetry to communicate and express oneself has become quite rare. One of the main reasons is due to the fact that with such an old style of writing, it is very often hard to understand properly. poetry is indeed difficult to read and hard to understand, but given time, it is a rewarding challenge. Poetry is not only written verse but is used in songs as well. Taken the time to listen to the words of modern songs, you will realise that the lyrics of the song are actually a poem linking modern day music to poetry.To help Year Twelve students that are studying poetry appreciate it's value, this pamphlet's aim is to discuss a classic poem and a modern song lyric to show that even poetry written many years ago can still be relevant to people and lyrics today. By reading this may you gain a greater knowledge and understanding of poetry in general, and not just the two discussed further on.The poem I have chosen is For the Fallen by Laurence Binyon. Certain stanzas from it are often quoted at Anzac Day ceremonies each year. The lyric chosen is also on the theme of war, and is titled I was only Nineteen, written by John Schumann. While the common setting is war, there are also other underlying themes that link both pieces of writing, such as loss of life, and alienationKI was only NineteenJohn Schumann1 Mum and Dad and Denny saw the passing out parade at Puckapunyal. It was a long march from cadets. The sixth battalion was the next to your and it was me who drew the card. We did Canungra and Shoalwater before we left.5 And Townsville lined the footpaths as we marched down to the quay. This clipping from the paper shows us young and strong and clean. And theres me in my slouch hat with my S.L.R. and greens. God help me, I was only nineteen.9 From Vung Tau riding Chinooks to the dust at Nui dat, Id been in and out of choppers now for months we made our tents a home, VB, and pinups on the lockers, and an ...
