By portraying the grim realities of the trenches during World War I through powerful poetry, Siegfried Sassoon shared untold stories that resonated deeply with audiences of his time. Despite the enduring significance of his words, Sassoon’s own life remains somewhat obscure.
A new biographical film titled Benediction now sheds light on the life of this soldier-poet. Directed and written by Terence Davies, known for his work on Distant Voices, Still Lives, the film is set for release this Friday. The movie stars Peter Capaldi as an older Sassoon and Jack Lowden as the young writer.
Sassoon, a decorated war hero turned critical war writer, faced personal turmoil, including struggles with his sexuality and failed relationships. Born into wealth in 1886, he left his studies at Cambridge University to pursue a writing career. It wasn’t until the age of 27 that he gained recognition with the publication of The Daffodil Murderer in 1913, just as the outbreak of World War I unfolded.
Joining the Royal Welch Fusiliers in 1915 after recovering from an injury, Sassoon earned the nickname “Mad Jack” for his daring acts of valor in the trenches. Despite receiving the Military Cross for his bravery, he was haunted by the harsh realities of war, which he vividly captured in his poems.
Sassoon’s candid and impactful war poetry garnered both popularity and critical acclaim. His shift in writing style towards a more direct and soldier-focused narrative resonated with readers, capturing the harshness of life on the front lines.
Amidst growing disillusionment with the war, Sassoon penned an open letter in 1917, condemning the conflict’s continuation. Despite facing potential repercussions for his dissent, his past heroism and support from fellow poet Robert Graves spared him from severe consequences.
Sent to Craiglockhart Military Hospital for shell shock, Sassoon met fellow poet Wilfred Owen, forming a bond that influenced Owen’s own work. Tragically, Owen was killed in action shortly before the war’s end, while Sassoon survived, albeit wounded by friendly fire.
Sassoon’s legacy extends beyond his war poetry, as he transitioned to prose following the war. Despite personal struggles and failed relationships, Sassoon’s impact on questioning the human toll of war remains relevant.
After a life marked by tragedy and personal turmoil, Siegfried Sassoon passed away in 1967, leaving behind a body of work that continues to resonate with audiences. His profound reflections on the horrors of war serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served on the front lines.
As Sassoon’s own words in Aftermath poignantly express, the memory of those lost in war must never be forgotten.
