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.
"In Flanders Fields" is one of the most notable poems written during World War I.
The poppies referred to in the poem grew in profusion in Flanders in the disturbed earth of the battlefields and cemeteries where war casualties were buried and thus became a symbol of Remembrance Day.
Modern public readings of the poem, stress the debt to the dead and the necessity to honor their memory in ceremonies often focusing on the sacrifice and sorrow of war.
As a symbol of remembrance the humble Flanders poppy is one of the most beautiful and recognised. With a simple little gesture of wearing a poppy we give a sign that they are not forgotten. This little poppy has been the source of design inspiration for many as seen below. While being essentially graphic in nature I cannot help but look at any of these and think of Flanders and all those that sacrificed themselves in war and will do so in the future.
Let us remember them everyday and not just on November 11th.
