Dulce et Decorum Est All exceptional poetry displays a good use of figurative language, imagery, and diction. Wilfred Owen's "Dulce et Decorum Est" is a powerful antiwar poem which takes place on a battlefield during World War I. Through dramatic use of imagery, metaphors, and diction, he clearly states his theme that war is terrible and horrific. The use of compelling figurative language helps to reveal the reality of war. In the first line, "Bent …showed first 75 words of 572 total…

…showed last 75 words of 572 total…Owen's style of writing. It is extremely difficult to write such excellent rhyming poem; but, then again Owen is naturally talented in choosing the right diction. This poem is extremely effective in showing the gruesome, heartless, and horrifying effects of war. I guess Hitler, Mussolini, Stalin, or any other pro-war leaders should really read this poem. If they had any sympathy for their troops they would make an effort to put an end to war.