Close Up (Poem by Gilbert Parker)

Close Up

By Gilbert Parker

You heard the bugles calling, comrades, brothers, — 

“Close up! Close up!”  You mounted to go forth,

You answered “We are coming,” and you gathered,

And paraded with your Captains in the North.

From here you came, from there you came, your voices

All flashing with your joy as flash the stars,

You waited, watched, until, the last one riding

Out of the night, came roll-call after wars.

Unsling your swords, off with your knapsacks, brothers!

We’ll mess here at headquarters once again;

Drink and forget the scars; drink and remember

The joy of fighting and the pride of pain.

We will forget: the great game rustles by us,

The furtive world may whistle at the door,

We’ll not go forth; we’ll furlough here together — 

Close up! Close up! ‘Tis comrades evermore!

And Captains, our dear Captains, standing steady,

Aged with battle, but ever young with love,

Tramping the zones round, high have we hung your virtues,

Like shields along the wall of life, like armaments above:

Like shields your love, our Captains, like armaments your virtues,

No rebel lives among us, we are yours;

The old command still holds us, the old flag is our one flag,

We answer to a watchword that endures!

Close up, close up, my brothers! Lift your glasses,

Drink to our Captains, pledging ere we roam,

Far from the good land, the dear familiar faces,

The love of the old regiment at home!

Poem Analysis:

Gilbert Parker's poem "Close Up" delves into the themes of camaraderie, loyalty, and the bonds forged in battle. Through vivid imagery and emotive language, Parker captures the essence of soldiers' unity and the enduring connection between comrades and their leaders. Let's delve into the deeper layers of this poignant piece:

Camaraderie in Battle: The poem opens with a vivid scene of soldiers responding to the call of bugles, symbolizing the camaraderie among comrades-in-arms. The repetition of "Close up! Close up!" underscores the urgency and unity of purpose among the soldiers as they prepare to go forth into battle.

Brotherhood and Unity: Parker highlights the sense of brotherhood and unity among the soldiers as they gather and parade with their captains. The imagery of voices flashing with joy like stars evokes a sense of shared purpose and solidarity, emphasizing the bond that exists between soldiers who have fought together.

Reminiscence and Reunion: The poem transitions to a scene of reunion and reminiscence as the soldiers return to headquarters after the war. There is a palpable sense of relief and relaxation as they remove their swords and knapsacks, ready to enjoy each other's company once again.

Celebration Amidst Scars: Amidst the scars of battle, the soldiers come together to drink and celebrate. Parker juxtaposes the joy of fighting with the pride of pain, acknowledging the hardships endured in battle while also recognizing the sense of pride and fulfillment that comes from serving one's country.

Honoring the Captains: Parker pays tribute to the captains, the leaders who have guided and inspired the soldiers through the trials of war. The captains are portrayed as figures of wisdom and love, revered by their troops and honored for their virtues and leadership.

Loyalty and Devotion: The soldiers pledge their loyalty to their captains and their regiment, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to the command and the flag. Despite the passage of time and the challenges they face, their bond remains unbroken, and they continue to answer the call of duty.

Nostalgia and Longing: The poem concludes with a sense of nostalgia and longing as the soldiers raise their glasses in a toast to their captains and their comrades. There is a bittersweet quality to their celebration, as they acknowledge the distance from their homeland and the loved ones they have left behind.

In conclusion, "Close Up" by Gilbert Parker is a poignant reflection on the enduring bonds forged in battle and the profound sense of camaraderie and loyalty that exists among soldiers. Through vivid imagery and heartfelt language, Parker captures the spirit of unity and brotherhood that sustains soldiers through the trials of war and beyond.