The poppy bloom hold a exceptional place in our pith and minds as the enduring symbol of recollection of the First World War . It is a hefty symbol that is strongly link with Armistice Day , which is observed on 11 November each year . But have you ever wondered why the poppy became such a democratic symbol of remembrance ?
The origin of the poppy as a symbol of remembrance can be traced back to the landscape of the First World War . During this devastating fight , the war - torn fields of Europe were transformed into barren wastelands , scarred by the end and expiry that had take place . However , amidst this desolation , something remarkable take place – the poppy flower set about to bloom .
The poppy flush possesses a unparalleled ability to expand in disquieted and damaged dirt . It is a resilient and fearless plant life that can brave out harsh condition . This resilience was evident in the battlefields of the First World War , where the poppy managed to spring up and flourish even in the most improbable of places . Its vibrant red petals assist as a barren contrast to the surrounding destruction , extend a glimmer of hope and beauty in the midst of bedlam .
The connecter between the poppy and remembrance began with the famous warfare poem “ In Flanders Fields ” write by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae , a Canadian soldier and physician . In this poignant poem , McCrae describes the poppies that develop amidst the graves of fallen soldiers in Flanders , Belgium . The poem ’s haunt imagery and potent message struck a chord with people around the existence , and the poppy quickly became a symbol of remembrance for those who had suffer their life in warfare .
The poppy ’s association with remembrance was further solidify by the effort of an American do-gooder , Moina Michael . Inspired by McCrae ’s verse form , Michael began selling silk poppy to raise stock for servicemen in demand . She campaigned tirelessly for the poppy to be adopted as a symbolization of memorial , and her efforts were eventually recognized and embraced by constitution such as the American Legion and the British Legion .
Today , the red poppy is worn as a symbolization of remembrance in many land around the world . It serves as a admonisher of the forfeiture made by soldiers and civilians during times of war , and as a way to honor their memory . The enactment of wearing a poppy has become a profoundly personal and meaningful gesture for many individuals , a way to show gratitude and respect for those who have serve and lost their life .
In my own personal experience , I have witnessed the power of the poppy as a symbol of recollection . Every year , on Armistice Day , I join countless others in wear down a red poppy as a small but substantial tribute to the fall . It serve as a reminder of the human cost of warfare and the importance of care for peace .
The poppy blossom is not just a beautiful flower ; it is a symbol that take hold abstruse substance and significance . Its ability to grow and flourish in the most unlikely of place , its association with brawny war poetry , and its connecter to the efforts of individual like Moina Michael have all contribute to its special condition as a symbol of anamnesis . The poppy serves as a admonisher to never blank out the sacrifices made by those who add up before us and to reach for a futurity destitute from the horror of war .
Caroline Bates
