2 George Henry Boker Poems

George Henry Boker was an American poet whose first collection was published in 1848. It was titled The Lessons of Life and other Poems. He also published several plays, like The Betrothal and Leonar de Guzman. One of his last works was Königsmark, The Legend of the Hounds, and other Poems.

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Sonnet

‘Sonnet’ by George Henry Boker is a war-time sonnet. It was written in order to emphasize how brave soldiers are and what they sacrifice.

George Henry Boker's poetry often examines the sacrifices and moral questions that arise from war, especially the American Civil War. This sonnet showcases a soldier’s inner conflict between personal love and patriotic duty. Although Boker isn’t as widely known today, his wartime sonnets are praised for capturing the courage and sorrow of soldiers. This poem is one of his noted works, offering a direct look at the soldier’s deep sense of duty and personal cost.

Brave comrade, answer! When you joined the war,

What left you? “Wife and children, wealth and friends,

A storied home whose ancient roof-tree bends

Above such thoughts as love tells o’er and o’er.”

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Untitled Poem

‘Untitled Poem’ captures the Civil War’s grim reality, reflecting on its physical and emotional scars through vivid imagery.

Blood, blood! The lines of every printed sheet

Through their dark arteries reek with running gore;

At hearth, at board, before the household door,

'T is the sole subject with which neighbors meet.

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