Poem Analysis - Hymn Before Action

Introduction: A Prayer for Forgiveness and Strength

Rudyard Kipling’s "Hymn Before Action" is a somber and introspective plea to God from soldiers on the brink of battle. The poem blends fear and supplication, acknowledging the impending violence while seeking divine mercy. The initial tone is one of acknowledging the wrathful world and invoking God's power, shifting to a confession of sin and a request for strength, and finally extending to a concern for the enemy. This journey reveals the complex emotions of those facing death, a mixture of guilt, fear, and a surprising element of empathy.

Historical Context: The Weight of Empire

Kipling wrote during the height of the British Empire, a time of frequent colonial conflicts. Understanding this historical backdrop is crucial. The poem reflects the moral complexities of soldiers fighting in wars often justified by imperial ambitions. The soldiers are participants in a system that may be inherently unjust, leading to the need for forgiveness even as they prepare to engage in violence.

Themes of Sin, Redemption, and Shared Humanity

One of the central themes is the acknowledgment of sin and the need for redemption. The soldiers confess to "High lust and froward bearing, Proud heart, rebellious brow -- Deaf ear and soul uncaring." This acknowledgement of moral failings suggests a burden of guilt, perhaps connected to the inherent violence and potential injustice of their actions. They are not presenting themselves as righteous warriors, but as flawed individuals seeking divine mercy. The poem develops the theme of a yearning for strength in the face of death. Their plea, "Lord, grant us strength to die!" isn't a wish for victory, but a desperate need for courage and acceptance in the face of mortality. This reinforces the human fragility exposed by war. Furthermore, there is a surprising theme of shared humanity. The poem shows an unexpected concern for the enemy, those "who kneel beside us at altars not Thine own." The soldiers recognize that their enemies, too, are driven by their beliefs and duty, prompting the prayer "Let not Thy Wrath befall them, But deal to us the blame."

Wrath and the Blade: Powerful Imagery

The poem uses vivid imagery to convey the gravity of the situation. "The earth is full of anger, The seas are dark with wrath" sets a scene of cosmic unrest mirroring the impending conflict. The image of drawing "the blade" is not romanticized. It's a stark reminder of the violence they are about to unleash. The recurring image of "wrath" is important. Initially, it is attributed to the world and potentially God, but later the poem shifts to a fear of God's wrath befalling the enemy. This suggests a recognition of the universal potential for divine judgment, applying both to themselves and their opponents.

Conclusion: Acknowledging the Moral Cost of War

“Hymn Before Action” is not a jingoistic call to arms, but a poignant meditation on the moral cost of war. The poem’s strength lies in its honesty and its willingness to confront the complexities of faith, duty, and violence. It acknowledges human flaws and seeks divine mercy, not just for the soldiers, but also, surprisingly, for their enemies. Ultimately, the poem stands as a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict, even in the face of patriotic duty. It's a prayer for forgiveness and courage, recognizing the heavy burden carried by those who go to war.