Iliad, Book IV: The Frontiers in Belgium

The infantryman with his bandolier recalls the last 4 days in Belgium, 96 years ago, No battle plan survives first contact with the enemy. Still, great progress is made. The immutable enemy is prodigally laid waste, always on a scale of thrilling new efficiency. 


Instantaneous monstrosities of statuary, rhetoric, music, poetry compete to adore carrion that soothes inadequacy, exalting treachery.


He does not dine at Thiepval.