‘The Target’ was published in 1919 after the First World War. The poem is told from the point of view of a young soldier who has just shot and killed an enemy soldier.
This poem is a dramatic monologue from the soldier’s point of view, as he is the only speaker and the poem reveals his thoughts and feelings. Take turns reading ‘The Target’ aloud in pairs.
The Target By Ivor Gurney
I shot him, and it had to be One of us! ‘Twas him or me. ‘Couldn’t be helped’ and none can blame Me, for you would do the same
My mother, she can’t sleep for fear Of what might be a-happening here To me. Perhaps it might be best To die, and set her fears at rest
For worst is worst, and worry’s done. Perhaps he was the only son ... Yet God keeps still, and does not say A word of guidance any way.
Well, if they get me, fi rst I’ll fi nd That boy, and tell him all my mind, And see who felt the bullet worst, And ask his pardon, if I durst.
All’s a tangle. Here’s my job. A man might rave, or shout, or sob; And God He takes no sort of heed. This is a bloody mess indeed.
