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officialkohls's review
5.0
Easily the most provocative anti-war writing I've read- I can understand why Twain wanted this published posthumously.
It's a short read- and absolutely worth your time.
It's a short read- and absolutely worth your time.
ale_edde's review
5.0
Funny that Mark Twain didn't want this published until after his death considering it only became so much more relevant only a few short years later.
shanviolinlove's review
5.0
One of the most powerful poems I've ever read. Especially now, since it's so applicable.
mad_about_books's review
5.0
I was prompted to read "The War Prayer" while reading A PEOPLE'S HISTORY OF AMERICAN EMPIRE, a graphic adaptation, by Howard Zinn, Mike Konopacki & Paul Buhle. It is referenced in "Chapter III, The Invasion of the Philippines" alongside "To the Person Sitting in Darkness." Written at the time of Teddy Roosevelt's presidency, "The War Prayer" defines the spirit of war as patriotism.
Twain eloquently tells his readers that a prayer for victory is also a prayer for defeat. Prayer for American troops safety is a prayer for the other's sides mutilation and death.
This short read is as relevant today as when it was written in 1904-05.
Twain eloquently tells his readers that a prayer for victory is also a prayer for defeat. Prayer for American troops safety is a prayer for the other's sides mutilation and death.
This short read is as relevant today as when it was written in 1904-05.
maam_md's review
5.0
"It was believed afterward that the man was a lunatic, because there was no sense in what he said."
A short, unforgettable read. Only a genius like Mark Twain can come up with something like The War Prayer. Beautifully poignant.
"Ponder this — keep it in mind. If you would beseech a blessing upon yourself, beware! lest without intent you invoke a curse upon a neighbor at the same time."
A short, unforgettable read. Only a genius like Mark Twain can come up with something like The War Prayer. Beautifully poignant.
"Ponder this — keep it in mind. If you would beseech a blessing upon yourself, beware! lest without intent you invoke a curse upon a neighbor at the same time."
tvancort's review against another edition
5.0
Today I reread it at WarPrayer.org today but recommend tracking down the illustrated version if you can, because it is stark and beautiful and painful and you get the idea.