I'm having trouble analyzing the second verse. The first one talks about the different ways that death has faced soldiers. I think that the second one is about future of wars? maybe... Also what is the importance of the quote from Siegried Sassoon at the beginning. It's kind of got me lost.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wilfred_Owen
Sassoon and Owen

The poem is a sonnet -- 8 lines, then a slight shift in topic for the next 6 lines.

Overall, think about this: Up to that point, young men (particularly in Europe, I think, but perhaps other places, too) were brought up to believe that it was noble and right to die for one's country. This seems to be the sentiment he's writing about in "The Next War" until you get to the last line. What are men really giving their lives for?

Compare your poem with the last 6-9 lines of this poem by Owen to get perspective: http://www.hcu.ox.ac.uk/jtap/warpoems.htm#12

Let me know if you have further questions or thoughts.

=)

what is the theme of the poem.

what is the imagery in the poem?

The theme of this poem is a look to the future where men would war against death to save lives.

To analyze the second verse and understand its connection to the first verse, it is important to consider the historical and literary context of the poem. To do that, you can start by researching the poet Wilfred Owen and his background. A good starting point is the Wikipedia page on Wilfred Owen (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wilfred_Owen).

Regarding the importance of the quote from Siegried Sassoon at the beginning of the poem, it is crucial to examine Sassoon's influence on Owen and their shared experiences in World War I. Sassoon was a renowned war poet and a mentor figure to Owen, and his quote likely sets the tone and themes for the poem.

To understand the overall message of the poem, it might be helpful to examine its structure. You mention that it is a sonnet, with 8 lines followed by a slight shift in topic for the next 6 lines. Consider the significance of this structure and how it contributes to the narrative and themes of the poem.

Additionally, the suggested comparison between your poem and the last 6-9 lines of another poem by Owen (found at http://www.hcu.ox.ac.uk/jtap/warpoems.htm#12) might provide valuable insights into the themes and perspectives of the poem you are analyzing.

By delving into the historical context, studying the poet's background, examining the structure of the poem, and making comparisons with other relevant works, you should gain a deeper understanding of the second verse and the overall meaning of the poem. Remember to take notes, reflect on the symbolism and imagery used, and consider the themes and messages conveyed by the poet.