Reverberations of Conflict: An Examination of Memory in the War Poetry of Carol Ann Duffy

Abstract

The paper explores the thematic significance of memory in the war poetry of Carol Ann Duffy, the first female and Scottish Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom. Duffy's poetic oeuvre is renowned for its emotional depth and vivid imagery, particularly in the context of war. Through examining poems such as "War Photographer" and "The Falling Soldier," the paper delves into Duffy’s utilization of memory as a powerful narrative tool to bridge past and present, offering profound insights into the human condition amidst conflict. The analysis reveals that memory in Duffy's war poetry operates on both personal and collective levels, serving as a means to mourn, reflect, and sometimes heal. Duffy's work not only personalizes the collective memory of war but also contributes to a broader societal understanding of its impacts. The paper argues that Duffy's exploration of memory underscores the complexities of remembering and forgetting, highlighting the enduring power of poetry to preserve memory and foster a deeper connection to our shared history and humanity.