The Death of the Scharnhorst, and Other Poems

"The Death of the Scharnhorst, and Other Poems" by Arch Alfred McKillen is a collection that captures the raw emotions of war, love, and grief in the years following World War II. Inspired by McKillen's time in the U.S. Navy and pivotal events, like the Pearl Harbor attack, these poems paint a picture of combat's impact on the human spirit and the soldier's bravery and struggles. Through his words, McKillen honors the fallen, like those aboard the German battleship "Scharnhorst," highlighting both historical events and personal stories of friendship and sorrow and also touches on prejudice and the power of love amidst turmoil. His straightforward, yet moving, language invites readers to understand the weight of these experiences, crafting a powerful look at survival and remembrance.