In Flanders Fields By John McCrea. Read by Maria Moynihan

In Flanders Fields, the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie,
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.


The Significance of Poppies in Remembrance - A Poem That Lives On

Early in the First World War, soldiers noticed the emergence of red poppies, the first signs of life on the desolate battlefields of the Western Front. It was amidst this grim landscape that a Canadian doctor and Colonel, John McCrae, experienced a profound moment of inspiration.

One fateful day, while burying a fallen comrade on May 2nd, 1915, McCrae found himself captivated by the vibrant flowers pushing through the freshly dug graves. Seated in the back of a field ambulance, he contemplated the scene before him, and in a burst of creativity, penned one of the most renowned poems of all time - "In Flanders Fields."

In this poignant piece, McCrae immortalized the poppies as they gently swayed between the rows of crosses that marked the soldiers' resting places. The larks above sang courageously amidst the deafening sounds of war, their melodies barely heard. The poem captured the essence of the fallen, their sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of hope.

The Journey of a Poem
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Initially, McCrae did not hold his own creation in high regard. Displeased, he crumpled the paper and cast it aside. However, his fellow soldiers recognized the power and beauty of his words, urging him to submit the poem for publication.

After being rejected by The Spectator magazine, McCrae's poem found a home in Punch magazine on December 8, 1915. Its evocative verses resonated deeply with readers, capturing their hearts and imaginations. "In Flanders Fields" quickly gained popularity and acclaim, becoming a symbol of remembrance and hope.

The Poppy Appeal
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The poem not only inspired emotions but also sparked a movement. Two influential women, Moyna Michael from the United States and Anna Gurion from France, championed the use of silk poppies as a symbol of remembrance. They encouraged the newly formed British Legion to purchase nine million silk poppies, laying the foundation for the first Poppy Appeal in 1921.

This groundbreaking initiative raised an astonishing amount, equivalent to 30 million pounds in today's currency, to support the welfare of veterans and their families. Even after 100 years, the Poppy Appeal continues to generate vital funds for this noble cause.

A Timeless Symbol
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The poppy has endured as a symbol of remembrance and hope. As people wear these crimson flowers, they pay tribute to the fallen and honor the courage and sacrifice of those who served.

"In Flanders Fields" remains one of the most beloved and well-known poems in the English language. McCrae's words, though penned in the midst of war, transcend time and continue to evoke powerful emotions in readers worldwide. His legacy lives on through his poetic masterpiece.

A Lasting Legacy
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Tragically, McCrae succumbed to pneumonia towards the end of the war. His body rests in France, but his words have achieved immortality. They serve as a reminder of the human spirit, resilience, and the enduring power of art to capture the essence of a moment and touch the hearts of generations to come.

As we observe Remembrance Day and honor the sacrifices made by those who served, let us remember the significance of the poppy. May it forever symbolize our gratitude and serve as a beacon of hope for a future marked by peace.


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