Following is a letter (reporting) written by World War II veteran Dan Raymond in response to the second step of a distancing exercise.  The first step (recording) was done by Mr. Raymond, but the hand written hard copy notes could not be scanned.  Also included is a link to a graphic representation of the action in the poem as sketched by Mr. Raymond.

May 2, 1998

Dear Friend,

I was given an interesting poem to read--one which raises more questions that it answers.

The poet, Henry Reed is speaking of what I think is a British assault force.  The time is in question as the tactics used are ones which would have fit in any conflict from the time of the American Revolution to the present.  But I place it as during World War II which was in the period from 1939 to 1945.  The reason for this is that the writer uses the clock-face to delineate direction.  (At seven o'clock from the houses...).  During earlier conflicts there were no wrist watches and almost no "troops" had or would carry pocket watches.

I know that the writer was British because of the use of contemporary British slang ("Don't call the "bleeders" sheep").

The assault force had some early successes and took ground which they had to subsequently give up.  (That which we had last Tuesday And at least you know).  Probably they now are contemplating re-taking that ground and/or are considering an enemy counterattack.

A man or a team is being sent to observe the terrain and to report on what they see.  Visibility in at least a part of "the arc" of sight is of concern to the speaker who wonders what is in the underbrush.  At least a part of the "arc" is under tall firs and poplars.

The troops are tired.  The observer to the west is unable to see what is needed, and is apparently unable to remain alert.  He reported something or some activity to the west earlier but it is late in the day and he cannot see well looking into the sun.

But, be careful what you see.  What you believe you see is not what you are actually looking at.  Are those sheep?  There is a question.  Are those people lovers?  It seems doubtful as the enemy certainly knows that the British are here.  Perhaps it is a device to bring our forces out of their secure hiding place to make them vulnerable.  Remember that there are usually no civilians of other noncombatants in a killing-zone.  Nor are there any livestock left to peacefully graze.  Be careful of that barn as it may hide the enemy.

Take care for minefields.  Where is the enemy?  What is he planning?

Dan Raymond