Further reflection on yesterday's post leads me to disagree with such a classical conception of the "glories" of dying in war. There is nothing glorious about war and death that justifies placing those who participate on a pedestal so high.

Why did so many young Canadians sign up for World War 1? For the glory of serving King and Country, for the adventure of throwing oneself into the unknown to fight bravely against the enemy. It wasn't until casualties began to mount and word was sent home urging friends, family and countrymen to do what they could not to enlist or be enlisted that the true nature of war came through. Glorious it was not.