“In Dulce Decorum” by The Damned, released in 1986, captures a unique cultural and historical moment, blending the punk rock edge with a gothic aesthetic amidst the undercurrents of the waning Cold War. The song title, borrowing from a Latin phrase famously critiqued by poet Wilfred Owen during World War I, hints at a deeper intellectual resonance. Eerie and atmospheric, the music evokes a sense of existential contemplation typical of the period. It even incorporates a nod to Winston Churchill and references the infamous “Lord Haw-Haw” broadcasts, further embedding the track in a rich tapestry of historical allusions. Having made its way onto my gym playlist for several years, the song prompted a deeper exploration into its complex layers and the era it reflects.
“In Dulce Decorum” appears on The Damned’s 1986 album “Anything.” The title is derived from the Latin phrase “Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori,” which translates to “It is sweet and right to die for your country.” This line is originally from an ode by the Roman poet Horace, but it became widely known in the English-speaking world through Wilfred Owen’s World War I poem “Dulce et Decorum Est,” which critiqued the glorification of war.
The Damned’s song reflects on the harsh realities and the human cost of war, aligning with Owen’s anti-war sentiments. The lyrics challenge the notion of war being glorious and question the justification of sacrifices made in war under the guise of honor and patriotism. It’s a powerful use of the phrase as a form of critique, suggesting that the ideals often used to justify war do not align with the brutal realities faced by those who actually fight.
Musically, “In Dulce Decorum” is somewhat of a departure from The Damned’s earlier punk rock style, featuring a more melodic, gothic rock influence that was characteristic of their work during the mid-1980s. The song uses lush instrumentation and a somber tone to underscore its anti-war message, making it a poignant piece within their discography.
The song’s use of the phrase “in dulce decorum” and its reflective lyrics indicate a skepticism of war’s alleged nobility, making it a continuation of the dialogue about the true nature of war, a theme that has been explored in literature and music for centuries.
THE COLD WAR HAS A PLAY IN THE TUNE
The song debuted in 1986 and of course the period from 1985 to 1987 marked a critical turning point in the Cold War, characterized by sweeping political changes, shifts in leadership, and evolving U.S.-Soviet relations. Mikhail Gorbachev’s rise to power as the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union in March 1985 heralded a new era with his policies of glasnost (openness) and perestroika (restructuring), which not only aimed to revitalize the Soviet economy but also increased transparency and sparked calls for greater freedom. This period also witnessed significant thawing in Cold War tensions, underscored by several key summits aimed at nuclear disarmament, including the pivotal meetings in Geneva and Reykjavik, although they initially failed to produce concrete agreements due to disagreements on issues like the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI). The devastating Chernobyl disaster in April 1986 further highlighted the need for safety and transparency, influencing not just Soviet policy but also impacting Eastern Europe politically and culturally. This era of reform and international dialogue, marked by cultural exchanges and increased East-West societal interactions, set the stage for the eventual decline of Cold War hostilities and ushered in a phase of cautious optimism that hinted at the eventual end of this global conflict.
But what about Horace?
The Latin phrase “Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori” comes from an ode written by the Roman poet Quintus Horatius Flaccus, more commonly known as Horace. This line is specifically from Ode 3.2 of his collection “Carmina” (Odes), which was published in 23 BC. The full line, “Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori,” translates to “It is sweet and fitting to die for one’s country.”
Influence
The influence of Horace’s ode extends far beyond its contemporary context. Through the centuries, the sentiment expressed in “Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori” was often cited to stir patriotism and valor. During the early 20th century, however, this view was increasingly challenged. Wilfred Owen famously critiqued this line in his anti-war poem “Dulce et Decorum Est,” written during World War I, where he describes the gruesome reality of war and labels the phrase as the “old Lie.”
Legacy
Horace’s odes remain a cornerstone of classical Latin literature, admired for their artistic beauty and philosophical insights. The particular ode with “Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori” encapsulates a Roman ideal that would be both celebrated and critiqued throughout history, showcasing the lasting impact of Horace’s work on literature, culture, and discussions about the morality and consequences of war.
Owen’s Thoughts
Wilfred Owen’s poem “Dulce et Decorum Est” is one of the most famous and poignant denunciations of the romanticized view of war. Written during World War I. Owen, having experienced the horrors of trench warfare firsthand, challenges this phrase directly, depicting the gruesome reality faced by soldiers.
Key Themes and Imagery
One of the most striking features of the poem is its graphic realism. Owen describes the soldiers as “Bent double, like old beggars under sacks,” a stark contrast to the typical portrayal of soldiers as gallant and dignified. The most harrowing part of the poem is the gas attack where Owen describes a soldier failing to get his mask on in time:
“In all my dreams, before my helpless sight,
He plunges at me, guttering, choking, drowning.”
This passage uses visceral imagery to convey the horrifying and undignified death that contradicts the noble image of the ‘sweet and fitting’ death for one’s country.
Impact and Message
The poem concludes with a bitter, ironic twist, directly addressing the reader and challenging the pro-war propagandists who glorify war:
“My friend, you would not tell with such high zest
To children ardent for some desperate glory,
The old Lie: Dulce et decorum est
Pro patria mori.”
By calling the patriotic phrase “The old Lie,” Owen vehemently rejects the romanticization of war. His aim is to convey the cruel reality of the battlefield, urging those at home to recognize the suffering and horror endured by the soldiers rather than perpetuating myths of noble sacrifice.
Legacy
“Dulce et Decorum Est” remains one of the most memorable war poems because of its stark depiction of war and its powerful critique of the romanticized view of military sacrifice. It is a cornerstone in literature curricula worldwide, often used to illustrate the disillusionment with traditional values that emerged in the wake of World War I. Owen’s work had a profound impact on the portrayal of war in literature, paving the way for more realistic and somber reflections on conflict.
CHURCHILL’S Intro in The Piece
“Let us therefore brace ourselves to our duties, and so bear ourselves that, if the British Empire and its Commonwealth last for a thousand years, men will still say, ‘This was their finest hour.'”
This speech is one of Churchill’s most inspiring orations, intended to prepare the British people for the forthcoming massive effort in resisting the German air attacks during the Battle of Britain, and it highlighted the critical role that Britain and its Commonwealth would play in the war.
The connection between Winston Churchill’s speech and The Damned’s song “In Dulce Decorum” lies in the use of historical and wartime rhetoric to evoke a sense of duty, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of conflict. Churchill’s speech, delivered during a critical phase of World War II, was meant to bolster British morale by emphasizing the nobility and necessity of sacrifice for one’s country. His words aimed to unify and inspire the British public to endure the hardships of war and contribute to what he framed as their “finest hour.”
The Damned’s song, though from a much later era and different context, taps into similar themes but with a critical perspective. Of course. the title “In Dulce Decorum” from Horace and famously critiqued by Wilfred Owen as part of the disillusionment with the so-called noble aspects of war. The Damned, integrating the essence of this critique, reflect on the irony and tragedy of this sentiment, exploring the darker and more brutal reality of what being called to duty in war often entails.
By invoking such powerful historical and literary contexts, The Damned weave a narrative that both acknowledges the traditional valor associated with serving one’s country and questions the glorification of such sacrifice. This reflects a broader punk and gothic rock tradition of challenging established narratives and encouraging deeper reflection on societal values and history. In this way, the song connects to Churchill’s speech by using the language and imagery of historical conflict, but it pivots to scrutinize and question rather than simply to inspire or uphold those ideals.
GERMANY CALLING
“Germany calling” was the introductory phrase used during World War II in English-language propaganda broadcasts that were transmitted by the German radio to audiences in Britain and the Allied nations. These broadcasts aimed to demoralize Allied troops and civilians, sway public opinion, and spread misinformation.
The broadcasts are most famously associated with William Joyce, who was an American-born British fascist and Nazi propaganda broadcaster. Joyce, derogatorily nicknamed “Lord Haw-Haw” by the British press, became the voice most identified with these German propaganda efforts. His broadcasts would often begin with “Germany calling, Germany calling,” followed by news, commentary, and propaganda that attempted to undermine the morale of the Allies.
Joyce’s broadcasts were widely listened to by British civilians and soldiers alike, more out of curiosity and for entertainment rather than genuine influence. His role ended with the defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945, after which he was captured, tried, and executed for treason by the British government.
The inclusion of “Germany calling” in The Damned’s song “In Dulce Decorum” can be seen as a multifaceted artistic choice that enriches the song’s thematic depth and historical resonance. Here’s why this inclusion is significant and what it might symbolize:
Historical Context
“Germany calling” was the identifier used by William Joyce, aka Lord Haw-Haw, who broadcast Nazi propaganda to Britain during World War II. These broadcasts were intended to demoralize the British populace and armed forces by spreading misinformation and promoting the Nazi agenda. By referencing this phrase, The Damned tap into a deep well of historical memory—one associated with manipulation, psychological warfare, and the darker aspects of mass communication during conflict.
Critique and Irony
In the context of a song that critically examines the notion of the glory of dying for one’s country—a sentiment encapsulated in the old Latin adage “Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori”—the mention of “Germany calling” adds a layer of irony. It juxtaposes the supposed honor of wartime sacrifice with the sinister reality of how wars are also fought on the fronts of information and propaganda. This duality underscores the song’s message about the complexities and contradictions of war.
Atmospheric and Aesthetic Elements
For a band like The Damned, whose musical evolution touched on gothic rock, the eerie and ominous overtones of a phrase like “Germany calling” complement the song’s mood. This aesthetic choice enhances the song’s gloomy atmosphere, fitting well with the gothic genre’s characteristic exploration of dark and melancholic themes.
Provoking Thought
By embedding such a phrase, The Damned not only recall a specific historical moment but also provoke listeners to think about the role of media and communication in shaping perceptions during war. It serves as a reminder of how public sentiment and opinion can be manipulated by those in power, a theme that remains relevant in various contexts beyond WWII.
Thus, the inclusion of “Germany calling” in “In Dulce Decorum” serves multiple purposes: it deepens the historical context, enriches the song’s thematic critique of war, adds to the sonic and atmospheric qualities of the track, and encourages a reflective consideration of past and present warfare tactics. This choice exemplifies how music can intersect with history to explore and question deeper truths about human society and conflicts.
The DUALITY OF WAR
Of course the song really addresses the duality of war. The duality refers to the contrasting and often contradictory nature of war, encompassing both the heroic and the horrific, the honorable and the brutal. This theme is deeply rooted in literature, philosophy, and the arts, reflecting the complex human experiences and ethical dilemmas that arise during wartime. Here are some key aspects of the duality of war:
Heroism and Horror
One of the most striking dualities in war is the coexistence of acts of great heroism and appalling atrocities. War can bring out extraordinary courage, self-sacrifice, and solidarity among soldiers and civilians, who often risk their lives to save others or defend their values. Conversely, the same setting can lead to extreme violence, cruelty, and the dehumanization of the enemy, resulting in acts that starkly contrast with heroic deeds.
Patriotism and Propaganda
War often stirs intense feelings of patriotism and loyalty to one’s country, compelling individuals to perform acts of bravery. However, this patriotic fervor can be manipulated through propaganda, which can distort truths to maintain morale or demonize the opponent. The thin line between motivating a populace and misleading it is a vivid illustration of war’s dual nature.
Destruction and Development
While war inevitably leads to destruction, loss of life, and suffering, it can also drive rapid technological and medical advancements. Many technologies that are part of everyday life, such as the internet, GPS, and numerous medical innovations, have origins in military development. This duality points to the paradox where war both destroys and catalyzes progress in various fields.
Unity and Division
War often leads to strong bonds of unity among people within a nation or among allies, forged through a shared purpose or common enemy. However, at the same time, it can exacerbate divisions, both between opposing sides and within a single society, leading to civil strife, political polarization, and social fragmentation.
Moral Ambiguity
The moral landscape of war is notoriously complex. Actions that are considered criminal in peacetime may be celebrated as heroic in wartime. Soldiers and leaders often face difficult decisions that challenge their moral and ethical boundaries, leading to questions about just war, the laws of combat, and the limits of acceptable wartime conduct.
Literary and Artistic Reflections
The duality of war has been a rich subject for artists and writers throughout history. From the epic poems of ancient times, like Homer’s Iliad, to modern works like Wilfred Owen’s poetry or Erich Maria Remarque’s novel All Quiet on the Western Front, literature explores the multifaceted nature of war. These works often highlight the personal struggles of soldiers, the impact on civilians, and the broader philosophical and ethical implications of warfare.
IN THE END
In conclusion, the exploration of The Damned’s song “In Dulce Decorum,” set against the backdrop of historical events and iconic speeches, reveals a somewhat complex interplay between art, history, and societal perceptions of war. The song’s references to Winston Churchill’s rallying cries during World War II and the infamous “Germany calling” broadcasts illustrate how music can encapsulate and critique the collective memory and sentiments of an era. Through their poignant lyrics and thematic choices, The Damned not only pay homage to historical events but also challenge the glorified narratives of wartime sacrifice, highlighting the often overlooked moral ambiguities and psychological impacts of war. This blend of gothic aesthetics with profound historical context serves as a reminder of the power of music to reflect and influence cultural understanding and invites listeners to reflect on the deeper meanings behind the rhetoric of war and heroism.
Mastermind Century Group 