War Poetry and PTSD: Expressions of Trauma and Healing

 War Poetry and PTSD: Expressions of Trauma and Healing

Personal Info :-

Name : Rahul Desai 

Roll No. : 22

Semester : 2

Paper No. : 110

Paper Name : History of literature 1900 to 2000

Assignment Topic : War Poetry and PTSD: Expressions of Trauma and Healing

Submitted To. : Smt. S.B. Gardi, Department of English (Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University)

Email ID : rahuldesai477@gmail.com

Introduction :-

"War, oh yes war but logical and incessant war

 and peace, oh yes because if war is completely

 understood then peace was the ideal".

- GERTRUDE STEIN

Condemnation of war increases in twentieth-century literature to a point probably unknown before in the history of civilization. War shows the dark side of human conditions, human rights and many more cruelty in certain ways. In the war how the soldiers represented the country and how he passed through the traumatic experience are the most horrible things. Rupert Brook and many more soldiers as well as poets created the huge horrific image of war and it's condition. It was a dark conditions of people and their needs.

War poetry captures the emotional and psychological impact of armed conflict on individuals and society. It delves into themes of loss, sacrifice, courage, trauma, and the futility of war, offering poignant insights into the human experience during times of conflict. War poetry is a genre that vividly portrays the harsh realities of war, including the devastation of lives and landscapes, the camaraderie among soldiers, the horror of battle, and the longing for peace.

What is War poetry? :-

War poetry originated during the time of war. The war poetry written by the brave soldiers and by their own experiences during the war. War poetry is writing that uses poems to express feelings and experiences related to war. It can be about the bravery of soldiers, the sadness of loss, the horror of violence, or any other emotions sparked by war. It can be written by soldiers fighting in the war or people back home affected by it.

PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) :-

Post-traumatic stress disorder, often abbreviated as PTSD, is a mental health condition that can develop in people who have experienced or witnessed a terrifying or shocking event. This event can be anything from a serious accident or assault to a natural disaster or war. People with PTSD may experience flashbacks, nightmares, and intense anxiety or fear related to the traumatic event. They may also avoid situations that remind them of the event or feel emotionally numb.

Exposure to a traumatic event is the primary cause of PTSD. This could be a personal experience like combat, assault, or a serious accident, or witnessing a traumatic event happen to someone else. In this situation people pass through the traumatic experience, fear, haunting consequences, dark experiences, nightmares and many more things.

Impact of war on mental health :-

People who experience war trauma might also develop into anxiety or depression. According to all the mental health professionals we spoke to, these conditions can occur on their own or in tandem with PTSD. Military sexual assault, specifically, is also frequently associated with depression. People passed through dangerous situations and major trauma. people passed through the mental darkness, mental health and depression situations. It was the recognition of a proportion of the population not suitable for army recruitment during the Second World War that spurred the setting up of the National Institute of Mental Health in the USA.

War adversely affects combatants and non-combatants alike, both physically and emotionally. Death, injury, sexual violence, malnutrition, illness, and disability are some of the most threatening physical consequences of war, while post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety are some of the emotional effects. The terror and horror spread by the violence of war disrupts lives and severs relationships and families, leaving individuals and communities emotionally distressed. The helplessly victimized children and families caught in the experience of war as the “collaterally damaged” population.

In addition to mental health challenges, soldiers often experience physical injuries during war, ranging from minor wounds to severe disabilities. These injuries can further exacerbate the psychological impact of their experiences. War often involves significant loss, including the loss of comrades, friends, and civilians. Dealing with grief and bereavement in a combat environment can be extremely challenging and can contribute to mental health difficulties. Decisions made in the heat of battle, witnessing or participating in acts that conflict with personal values, and grappling with the consequences of one's actions can all contribute to moral injury and psychological distress. Returning to civilian life after deployment presents its own set of challenges. Reintegrating into society, dealing with the aftermath of trauma, and navigating civilian roles and responsibilities can be overwhelming for many veterans.

The role of poetry as a therapeutic medium :-

Poetry serves as a therapeutic medium by providing individuals with a unique avenue to express and navigate their emotions. Through carefully crafted words and imagery, poetry allows people to delve into the depths of their feelings, whether they are joyous, sorrowful, or complex. This form of creative expression enables individuals to articulate experiences that may be difficult to convey through ordinary conversation, fostering a sense of release and catharsis. The act of writing or engaging with poetry encourages introspection, prompting individuals to reflect on their thoughts, memories, and perceptions, which can be a powerful catalyst for personal growth and healing.

The soldiers serve the actual traumatic values of the thoughts, memory, ideas and major concepts during the war. War represented the harsh collectiveness of darkness and PTSD moments in soldiers life and soldiers emotions. This role of poetry made a huge impact on the emotions and feelings of soldiers and they wanted to be free from these traumatic values and they wanted freedom from aspects of the war.

We can say that, for those who have directly experienced the horrors of war, writing poetry can serve as a form of emotional release and catharsis. By putting their memories, feelings, and thoughts into words, veterans and survivors can externalize their inner turmoil, transforming overwhelming emotions into manageable and meaningful expressions. This act of creative expression allows them to confront and explore their trauma in a safe and controlled manner, helping to alleviate psychological distress and promote healing. 

The reading of war poetry can be cathartic for individuals dealing with trauma, providing them with a sense of validation and understanding. When they encounter poems that resonate with their own experiences or emotions, it can evoke a profound sense of connection and empathy, reassuring them that they are not alone in their struggles. Soldiers make more struggles during the war and freedom from the war. The act of engaging with war poetry encourages reflection and introspection, prompting individuals to confront difficult truths and navigate complex feelings. Through the power of poetic language and imagery, readers can gain new insights into their experiences, perspectives, and coping mechanisms, fostering a sense of self-awareness and empowerment. The writing and reading war poetry offer individuals dealing with trauma a therapeutic outlet for expression, connection, and personal growth.

Themes in war poetry related to PTSD :-

This delves into the major themes of trauma, flashback, isolation, survivor's guilt, nightmares, survival  and resilience, etc.

Trauma :-

These war poems depict the traumatic experiences of combat, including intense battles, bombings, and the constant threat of danger. Poets often use vivid imagery and sensory details to convey the chaos and brutality of war, capturing the recurring nightmares and flashbacks that haunt survivors with PTSD. War poets may use fragmented narratives or disjointed structures to mimic the fragmented memories and intrusive thoughts associated with PTSD. Poems often vividly depict the traumatic events of war, using imagery that conveys the chaos, violence, and fear experienced in combat.

Flashback :-

Flashback used as a past happiness or memory of soldiers with their family, friends and nation. They wanted to go to the past or flashback and live with the joyful memories. Flashbacks in war poetry often blur the boundaries of time, making past traumas feel immediate and present. Poets convey the timeless nature of PTSD, where the past feels eternally present in the mind of the survivor. Flashback themes in war poetry delve into the emotional impact of reliving traumatic events. Poets express the anguish, fear, and despair that accompany flashbacks, highlighting the lasting scars left on the psyche.

Poems about flashbacks often feature fragmented memories, where disjointed images, sounds, and sensations replay in the mind. This fragmentation mirrors the disjointed nature of PTSD-related memories. War poets explore the triggers that induce flashbacks, such as sudden noises, smells, or visual cues reminiscent of the traumatic event. These triggers can set off a cascade of memories and emotions, overwhelming the individual. We can see that Ernest Hemingway's novel "For Whom the Bell Tolls" in this Hemingway also uses the technique of flashback.

Isolation :-

Poems about PTSD often portray the sense of isolation and disconnection that survivors experience, both during and after war. Poets may depict soldiers' struggles to reconnect with their families and communities after experiencing trauma, highlighting the sense of disconnect and estrangement that can accompany PTSD. Soldiers returning home may feel estranged from civilian life, unable to relate to others who have not experienced the horrors of war.

Survivor's guilt :-

War poems explore the emotional turmoil of survivors who grapple with guilt for surviving while their comrades perished. Poets may use symbolic imagery, such as empty boots or haunting echoes of lost voices, to evoke the weight of survivor's guilt. War poetry frequently delves into the theme of survivor's guilt, where soldiers grapple with feelings of guilt and shame for surviving when others did not. This internal conflict can manifest in poems through themes of loss, grief, and questioning the fairness of fate.

Nightmares :-

Sleep disturbances are common symptoms of PTSD, and war poetry often portrays the torment of recurring nightmares and insomnia. Poets may use dream imagery to convey the disorientation and distress experienced by those grappling with trauma-related sleep disorders. Poets may use dream-like imagery or surreal descriptions to capture the disorienting and distressing nature of PTSD-related nightmares.

Survival  and resilience :-

Despite the challenges posed by PTSD, war poetry also celebrates the resilience and strength of survivors. Poets may highlight moments of bravery, camaraderie, and hope amidst adversity, emphasizing the human capacity to endure and overcome trauma. These poems often convey messages of resilience, healing, and the possibility of finding meaning and purpose after war.

Healing and Recovery through poetry :-

Throughout history, poetry has served as a powerful tool for healing and recovery.  Poetry can also foster connection and understanding. Reading poems written by soldiers who have experienced similar trauma can create a sense of solidarity and shared experience. By sharing one's own poems, individuals can connect with others and receive support. Poetry and words are healing the mental trauma, mental health, and inner consequences. Poetry can be a valuable tool on the road to healing. It allows individuals to express the complexities of their experiences, find solace in creativity, and connect with others who understand their struggles.

Traumatic experiences can be so overwhelming that they defy easy explanation. Poetry offers a space to explore these experiences with metaphor, imagery, and symbolism. By translating raw emotions into words and metaphors, the poet can begin to understand and manage difficult feelings. The rhythm and structure of poetry can be incredibly therapeutic. Using specific meters, rhyme schemes, or even free verse allows the writer to express their emotions in a controlled and rhythmic way.

Comparative analysis of war poems :-

World War I poets like Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon challenged the glorification of war. Their poems depict the horrific realities of trench warfare, the psychological trauma of soldiers, and the immense loss of life. The horrors of 20th-century warfare led to a shift towards free verse and modernist techniques. These poems often employ fragmented structures, unconventional language, and stark imagery to convey the chaos and brutality of war.

"The Charge of the Light Brigade" by Alfred Lord Tennyson (1854) vs. "Dulce et Decorum est" by Wilfred Owen (1917). Both poems deal with war, but Tennyson's work celebrates heroism and sacrifice, while Owen's exposes the suffering and futility of war. This comparison highlights the shift in attitudes towards war during the 20th century. Both poets portray the brutality of war and the reality of situations. War poetry reflects the cultural context of the author and audience. Comparing poems from different cultures can reveal diverse perspectives on the experience of war. It fascinating the background of historical context and cultural impact on realistic dilemmas. Both poems challenge and face the idealistic honor of dying for one's nation.

Impact of war poetry on society and advocacy :-

War poetry, particularly from the 20th century onwards, acts as a powerful counter-narrative to the glorification of war often presented by governments and media. Poems by Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon exposed the brutal realities of trench warfare, shattering romanticized notions of heroism and duty. This exposed the human cost of war and challenged public support for prolonged conflict. The power of war poetry to evoke public outrage and sympathy has fueled anti-war movements throughout history.

In poems like "The Fear" by Gibson and "Dulce et Decorum est" by Wilfred Owen in these both poems we can see that the people and society drive through anxiety, trauma, darkness and many more aspects. People also feel fear from war and its impact on life. People and society worried about their children, soldiers and nation's pride. By giving voice to the silenced and expressing the unspeakable horrors of war, war poetry can contribute to the healing process for veterans, survivors, and society as a whole. 

Conclusion :-

In conclusion, war poetry and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) offer a unique lens through which to examine the enduring impact of war. War poetry serves as a powerful testament to the physical and psychological wounds inflicted by conflict. It gives voice to the pain, fear, and loss experienced by soldiers and civilians alike. By analyzing the themes, styles, and historical contexts of war poems, we gain a deeper understanding of the devastating effects of war on individuals and societies.

Understanding PTSD allows us to appreciate the long-term psychological consequences of war. The parallels between the themes explored in war poetry and the symptoms of PTSD highlight the enduring struggle for individuals to process their experiences and find healing. The war poetry and the study of PTSD remind us of the human cost of war and the importance of seeking peace and reconciliation.

References :-

FEIN, RICHARD. “Modern War Poetry.” Southwest Review, vol. 47, no. 4, 1962, pp. 279–88. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/43467426. Accessed 13 Apr. 2024.

Rathi Amrita, "Psychological Impact of Victims of War and Conflict".  https://www.apa.org/international/united-nations/un-matters/rathi-war.pdf Accessed 25 Apr. 2024

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