The Young Guard

"The Young Guard" by E. W. Hornung is a collection of poems written during the early 20th century, specifically amidst the backdrop of World War I. This compilation reflects the war experience and the impact it had on young men as they faced the tumult of battle. The theme centers on themes of valor, loss, and the harsh reality of war as felt by both soldiers and those waiting for them at home. The poems in "The Young Guard" provide poignant snapshots of life and death during World War I, highlighting both the bravery and the vulnerabilities of young soldiers. Through verses like "Last Post" and "The Ballad of Ensign Joy," Hornung captures the contrasting emotions of pride and sorrow as characters grapple with the duties of war and the indelible consequences that follow. The voice ranges from nostalgic reflections of youth to stark portrayals of sacrifice, ultimately creating a vivid literary tapestry that represents not only the individual experiences of soldiers but also the collective grief and honor of a generation caught up in the realities of conflict. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Ernest William Hornung was an English author and poet known for writing the A. J. Raffles series of stories about a gentleman thief in late 19th-century London. Hornung was educated at Uppingham School; as a result of poor health he left the school in December 1883 to travel to Sydney, where he stayed for two years. He drew on his Australian experiences as a background when he began writing, initially short stories and later novels.