War Photographer

Question 1

Thoughts and feelings

Answer 1

The photographer feels deeply conflicted about his role in capturing suffering without being able to alleviate it. He reflects on the stark contrast between the horrors of war and the indifference of people living in peace. The poem explores guilt, isolation, and the moral burden of bearing witness.

Question 2

Purpose

Answer 2

To highlight the emotional toll on those who document war and to critique how the public often consumes tragic news without real empathy or action.

Question 3

Structure

Answer 3

Four controlled stanzas of six lines each; the rigid structure reflects the methodical process of the photographer and contrasts with the chaos of war.

Question 4

Language

Answer 4

Vivid imagery, such as “spools of suffering,” creates a visceral sense of pain.

Contrasts like “fields which don’t explode beneath the feet” juxtapose the war zones with the photographer’s peaceful home.

Religious references (“priest preparing to intone a Mass”) underline the solemnity of his work.

Question 5

Tone and mood

Answer 5

Somber and reflective, conveying sadness and frustration. The mood also has an undercurrent of anger at the public’s detachment.