Hi everyone,
I’m studying Rudyard Kipling’s poem “Tommy” for my English Literature class, and I’m struggling to understand how Kipling uses the character of Tommy to comment on societal hypocrisy. In the poem, Tommy is treated poorly by civilians, but when there’s a need, they praise him for his service. Could someone help me analyze how Kipling contrasts the way Tommy is viewed by society during peacetime and wartime? How does this reflection tie into the theme of respect and recognition? Any insights would be greatly appreciated!