This post contains affiliate links.
On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, In Defence of the Realm by Dr. Richard Ormrod unites the poetry of World Wars I and II in a groundbreaking, comprehensive study, revealing the evolving voices of conflict through celebrated and lesser-known poets alike.
In Defence of the Realm

In a literary milestone, In Defence of the Realm – The Poetry of World Wars I & II; A Critical Study by Dr. Richard Ormrod offers a groundbreaking exploration of war poetry, weaving together the voices of two global conflicts in a single, definitive volume. This comprehensive and long-overdue work redefines how we engage with the poetry of war, presenting an unparalleled comparative lens that illuminates the evolving artistic, emotional, and historical dimensions of conflict across the first half of the twentieth century.

For the first time, poetry from both World Wars is examined within one volume, creating a powerful dialogue between eras. Ormrod’s study transcends mere juxtaposition, uncovering the continuities and divergences that shape our understanding of modern warfare. By placing celebrated poets like Wilfred Owen, Siegfried Sassoon, Keith Douglas, and Sidney Keyes alongside lesser-known but equally compelling voices, the book delivers a richer, more inclusive picture of the poetic response to conflict than ever before.
The scope of In Defence of the Realm is vast, encompassing verse from the English-speaking world and representing all branches of service—soldiers, prisoners of war, civil defence members, the Home Guard, and even BBC contributors. This diversity challenges assumptions about war poetry, revealing its breadth and depth across services and eras. Ormrod’s meticulous research and critical assessments highlight the range and quality of writing, making the book an indispensable resource for scholars, students, and general readers alike.
Dr. Richard Ormrod
Dr. Richard Ormrod, a semi-retired academic, brings a wealth of expertise to this work. A published biographer, journalist, reviewer, and poet, he has taught for the Open University and currently leads Creative Writing courses through the Rye Arts Festival, where he also delivers public lectures. With his first volume of poetry published last year and a second forthcoming, Ormrod’s passion for the craft infuses this study with both scholarly rigor and creative insight.

Comprehensive, challenging, and meticulously researched, In Defence of the Realm is a must-read for lovers of history, poetry, and the esoteric. It offers fresh perspectives on familiar works while championing overlooked voices, making it a vital addition to the study of war literature. Whether you’re a postgraduate student or a curious reader, this book invites you to experience the enduring power of poetry born from conflict.
In Defence of the Realm – The Poetry of World Wars I & II; A Critical Study is available now, promising to reshape how we understand the poetic legacy of the twentieth century’s defining wars.
Find more from Dr. Richard Ormrod now:
Amazon: https://amzn.to/45Zi6t7
We strive to keep The Table Read free for both our readers and our contributors. If you have enjoyed our work, please consider donating to help keep The Table Read going!
