I cannot tell you how many times I was given the assignment to memorize, In Flanders Fields. Seems to me it was every November, throughout grade school!
Sadly, when I tried to remember it just a few days ago, I could only recall a few lines, but thanks to Google, I was able to quickly pull it up for a refresher.
It’s a lovely poem with a sound both sober and lilting–if that’s possible–perhaps because it takes me back to childhood. And while I always hated getting called on to recite it in front of the class, I always liked the way I felt when I said the words. Even now, when I read it out loud, it echoes in my heart.
So this November 11th, known here in Canada as Remembrance Day, I give to you, In Flanders Fields.
IN FLANDERS FIELDS
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place: and in the sky
The larks still bravely singing fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the dead: Short days ago,
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved: and now we lie
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe
To you, from failing hands, we throw
The torch: be yours to hold it high
If ye break faith with us who die,
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields
By Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae
Author Kathryn Jane, loves poppies, poetry, people, and cats!
FALL GIVEAWAY
Word by Word 
Reblogged this on Mystery and Romance.
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Hi Kathryn, I can also recall memorizing the poem and then reciting it out loud with a choral group. Dressed in dark skirts and white blouses, we wore our poppies pinned high on our heart side. Reminiscing and reflecting on the brave men and women who fought to keep us safe. 🙂
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Reblogged this on Jeannie Hall Suspense and commented:
Happy Veterans/Remembrance Day!
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Thanks, Jeannie!
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I’m always in awe on this day of those who served our country. I grew up knowing every male in my family served and the gratitude for what they did. Now, my nephew is in the Navy. We’re so proud and grateful.
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Lovely post, Kathryn. Canada has much to be proud of.
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What a great post for today. Thank you for the reminder, Kathryn!
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Hey, Kathryn. A great post and another example of Canadian and US sharing. Nov. was the day the Armistice was signed ending WW!. Times have changed so much since then. But still we have love of country and a willingness to sacrifice for freedom for all. I never had to memorize this poem, but certainly read it numerous times. It’s not really easy to read outloud, I think. The phrasing is tough, but then it was a tough and beautiful subject. I’ve shared. 🙂
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