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Thunder and Lightning…
From the beaches of Dunkirk to the jungles of Burma, the Second World War became a theatre that immortalized the savagery of war. For every organization involved – and there were many – courage and discipline were paramount.
Within these pages are represented the Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, British Army, Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF), Bletchley Park, Home Guard, and Land Army, among others. Organized into sections, each poem conveys the harrowing experiences of war.
Two sections specifically recognize the ‘courage beyond endurance’ of the SAS and SOE. Captured, tortured, and executed, these special agents ventured deep into enemy territory for the sake of democracy.
The section on the Holocaust portrays the terror of the thousands of Jewish people slaughtered by an enemy committed to ethnic cleansing. Each poem captures the trauma inflicted upon men, women, and children, none more poignantly than ‘The Faceless.’
Later in the book, a section commemorates the remarkable flying skills of the Russian women known as the ‘Night Witches,’ who defended and attacked German targets.
With the help of many Allies, World War II ended, leaving countless lives lost, numerous lives forever changed, and the enduring hope that history serves as a lesson for humanity.
Within these pages are represented the Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, British Army, Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF), Bletchley Park, Home Guard, and Land Army, among others. Organized into sections, each poem conveys the harrowing experiences of war.
Two sections specifically recognize the ‘courage beyond endurance’ of the SAS and SOE. Captured, tortured, and executed, these special agents ventured deep into enemy territory for the sake of democracy.
The section on the Holocaust portrays the terror of the thousands of Jewish people slaughtered by an enemy committed to ethnic cleansing. Each poem captures the trauma inflicted upon men, women, and children, none more poignantly than ‘The Faceless.’
Later in the book, a section commemorates the remarkable flying skills of the Russian women known as the ‘Night Witches,’ who defended and attacked German targets.
With the help of many Allies, World War II ended, leaving countless lives lost, numerous lives forever changed, and the enduring hope that history serves as a lesson for humanity.
160 pages, Paperback
Published April 25, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
May 28, 2025
Thunder and Lightning… is a powerful poetic tribute to the unsung heroes and horrors of World War II. Emily M Edwards masterfully weaves history and emotion into each verse, illuminating the diverse roles played by individuals from the RAF to the Land Army, and beyond. The collection’s structure gives each group—from the brave agents of the SOE to the ‘Night Witches’—a voice, honouring their sacrifice and resilience. Particularly moving is the section on the Holocaust, with poems like The Faceless offering raw, haunting reflections. Edwards does not romanticize war; instead, she presents it with reverence and sorrow, reminding readers of the human cost behind every statistic. This book is more than a collection of poems—it is a testament to memory, courage, and the enduring need to learn from history’s darkest hours.
April 15, 2025
I was privileged to be awarded an early copy of this World War Two poetry book.
The author Emily M Edwards has incorporated, not only poetry that stirs emotions but also snippets of history.
From different aspects of WWII the reader is invited to feel the elements of what serving personnel and civilians were entrenched in.
The insight into the Holocaust and the activity of Churchill's secret agents (SOE) is especially moving and heartfelt.
With VE day approaching this poetry book reminds us all why history should not be forgotten.
The author Emily M Edwards has incorporated, not only poetry that stirs emotions but also snippets of history.
From different aspects of WWII the reader is invited to feel the elements of what serving personnel and civilians were entrenched in.
The insight into the Holocaust and the activity of Churchill's secret agents (SOE) is especially moving and heartfelt.
With VE day approaching this poetry book reminds us all why history should not be forgotten.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews